2009 Repeating NL Central Division Champs Chicago Cubs Thread of Destiny

[ozzie]

By RICK GANO, AP Sports Writer

"The Braves have lost six straight and can’t seem to win away from Turner Field. They fell to 7-24 on the road and have lost their last 21 one-run games on the road since August, matching the longest such streak in major league history.

According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Kansas City lost 21 straight one-run games on the road from 2000-01."

Couldn't happen to a better franchise! It's not that I hate the Braves... I just hate all of their bandwagon jumping fans who rode the wave of success for over a decade, proclaiming, "I was a Braves fan even during the losing years!"

Well, where the fuck are ya now ya fucking hayseeds? Damn, it sucks living down here sometimes.

S-W-E-E-P BABY!

I love that this team is made to defend the "Friendly Confines", and are finally dominating at home.

On to Toronto. First game of the year on fake grass :thumbdown:

[TheMojoPin]

A few random factoids...

This is now, I believe, the 5th time this year that the Cubs have had winning streaks of 4 games or more.

With Eyre's relief appearance today, he has now set a new Cubs' record for most apearances, 32, without giving up a run. Dempster held the record previously wih 31.

Here's the most anti-climatic win of the year:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/kyCp_FZL4pM&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/kyCp_FZL4pM&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Love those throwback '48 uniforms! Dig those crazy stirrups everyone is wearing.

Here's Edmonds' game-tying HR in the 9th...love Len's Brickhouse-style HR call!

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/MzVJm3PNjYM&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/MzVJm3PNjYM&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[TheMojoPin]

Here's some photos people took of the throwback broadcast...check out the old-timey camera angles!

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q121/mjhteen07/007.jpg

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen6.jpg

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen1.jpg

All of the staff were dressed up in '48 fashions, and the announcer, Wayne Messmer, was behind homeplate with a mic like ye olden times:

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen2.jpg

Love the out of date graphics...hate Lee's stats:

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen3.jpg

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen4.jpg

http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh153/OleMissCub17/screen5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v337/tenritsu/DSCN1608.jpg

Len & Bob in suits on a 90 degree day:

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u310/nucubs/lenandbobbw.jpg

It was dorky, but it was a ton of fun.

[Kevin]

http://thenastyboys.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/baker1109.jpg

For me, everyday is a throwback day when it comes to pitchers.

[Kevin]

Hey Mojo. I am sure Spoon LOOOOOOOOOVED! seeing Reed Johnson take Halliday deep today.


LOOOOOVVVVVVVVVVVED IT!

[TheMojoPin]

Thanks for the birthday win against a genuine ace, Cubs.

Reed Johnson sucks hitting leadoff and sucks hitting righties...yet for today, he did not. It's cool how much love the Jays fans show him. I really like him as a platoon player and the guy goes all out.

[TheMojoPin]

Kevin, you called it!

The Cubs have sent a DVD to the league office in New York of Ronny Cedeno's shot up the middle in Saturday's game in Toronto that originally was ruled a hit before being changed to an error after Reed Johnson's three-run homer. That made the runs unearned. They're hoping the league will overturn the scoring decision. (http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-18-cubs-bits-chicagojun18,0,7145869.story)

[Kevin]

OH OH.. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3451506)

[TheMojoPin]

I'll be stunned if it's anything serious and he misses more than his next start, if that. Based on how he wanted to keep going and the practice motions he took on the mound, he's either an incredible actor or it was just relatively minor discomfort.

This series is frustrating as hell. Both games lost to the Rays by just 1 run in nailbiters in the 9th. Good baseball, even if it is played on fucking Astroturf. What the fuck is wrong with teams that steal use that shit?

[jauble]

I'll be stunned if it's anything serious and he misses more than his next start, if that. Based on how he wanted to keep going and the practice motions he took on the mound, he's either an incredible actor or it was just relatively minor discomfort.

This series is frustrating as hell. Both games lost to the Rays by just 1 run in nailbiters in the 9th. Good baseball, even if it is played on fucking Astroturf. What the fuck is wrong with teams that steal use that shit?

they also use a DH...enough said.

[TheMojoPin]

I hate close losses like this...they're losing most of the game, so I come to accept it, then they make a run for it at the end, get my hopes and dash them. It's like losing twice in one game.

Thank God the Cardinals have lost their last two games.

[Knowledged_one]

Zambrano goes for an MRI today back in Chicago

also what the hell happened to Rich Hill?

[TheMojoPin]

also what the hell happened to Rich Hill?

The Cubs did.

[midwestjeff]

I hate close losses like this...they're losing most of the game, so I come to accept it, then they make a run for it at the end, get my hopes and dash them. It's like losing twice in one game.

Thank God the Cardinals have lost their last two games.

At this point, the Cardinals have a better starting five on the DL than some teams have active. Plus, apparently Pujols has driven in every run since April because they can't seem to score without him. So yeah, the Cubs can relax for a while and drop some games, the Cards won't be making a move any time soon.

[TheMojoPin]

At this point, the Cardinals have a better starting five on the DL than some teams have active. Plus, apparently Pujols has driven in every run since April because they can't seem to score without him. So yeah, the Cubs can relax for a while and drop some games, the Cards won't be making a move any time soon.

Of course, now that we start the lose, the Brewers seem to be pounding the ball. Hopefully their craptacular rotation and bullpen will keep them in check.

[Knowledged_one]

Of course, now that we start the lose, the Brewers seem to be pounding the ball. Hopefully their craptacular rotation and bullpen will keep them in check.

I dont know their bullpen has gotten better between Mota and Torres who has saved i think 8 in a row for them

[TheMojoPin]

I dont know their bullpen has gotten better between Mota and Torres who has saved i think 8 in a row for them

It's improved at the back-end, but it's still an all-around wreck. It was their biggest weakness last year, and it only somehow got worse this year.

Their pitching in general will be there downfall, besides Yost being an idiot (I dread the day he's fired). Just looking at this month, look at the huge run totals they've given up. (http://milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com/schedule/index.jsp?c_id=mil)

[midwestjeff]

It's improved, but it's still a all-around wreck. It was their biggest weakness last year, and it only somehow got worse this year.

I really feel like they've missed their window. I know they have a lot of young talent but for some reason they don't seem to be able to put it all together. I might eat my words, but I think they have peaked.

[TheMojoPin]

I really feel like they've missed their window. I know they have a lot of young talent but for some reason they don't seem to be able to put it all together. I might eat my words, but I think they have peaked.

They've got a young core of quality offensive talent locked up for some time, and if their key starters can stay healthy, they'll be a threat for at least a few season. I'm serious, Yost's moronic managing is the biggest boon to division rivals right now outside of the injuries they've faced. If they fire him, pick up another quality starter and sharpen up the pen, we're in trouble.

[cougarjake13]

They've got a young core of quality offensive talent locked up for some time, and if their key starters can stay healthy, they'll be a threat for at least a few season. I'm serious, Yost's moronic managing is the biggest boon to division rivals right now outside of the injuries they've faced. If they fire him, pick up another quality starter and sharpen up the pen, we're in trouble.

willie randolph's available

[TheMojoPin]

See what I was tlaking about with the Brewer's bullpen? They go into the 9th with an 8-1 lead against Toronto and win 8-7.

[IMSlacker]

The Cubs finally have a lead against the Rays. Hopefully, they can keep it.

[TheMojoPin]

Wow, talk about shitting the bed. Looks like the Cubs are gonna be swept and lose 3 in a row both for the first time this season and the most they've lost a game by this season, thanks to Marmol and Eyere, who had been 2 of their best relievers up until this point. I think this makes them 0-9 in that state of Florida going back to 2005. Thank God they're back to Wrigley for the next two series.

[Ritalin]

Good news: Big Z is going to be alright, according to SI.com. No structural damage, just a strain.

And of course, a great win today. Couldn't see it, sounds like a GREAT finish.

[TheMojoPin]

I swear, all of the Cubs' big comeback wins have happened this year while I've been at work.

Here's Aramis' game-winner called by Len and Bob:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BBfEmiPde_A&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BBfEmiPde_A&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Here it is called by the Sox' abomination of a broadcast team. Love the minute of silence:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OteyG2LlJhs&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OteyG2LlJhs&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Here's some great photos:

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/b2/fullj.496c8df92b91311a378f64402cb4e8f5/496c8df92b91311a378f64402cb4e8f5-getty-80333181jd009_chicago_white.jpg

http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/65c09190-5273-42da-aa53-229d137fe191.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/59/fullj.b0847165ae68033f712dad90d472cbfd/b0847165ae68033f712dad90d472cbfd-getty-80333181jd008_chicago_white.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/59/fullj.1e7f65e3246840d37e365d4b3f57b8f2/1e7f65e3246840d37e365d4b3f57b8f2-getty-80333181jd010_chicago_white.jpg

http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2008-06/40219041.jpg

Aramis' batflip was badass.

Good news about Zambrano. I like the idea of him getting 2-3 starts off to be sure and give him some rest for the second half. The talk about Soriano coming back quicker than expected is just silly. Good to hear Lou dismiss it...I'd much rather make sure he's fully healed before he comes back, and I hope they maybe give him a couple minor league rehab starts this time to shake off the rust.

This win was definitely needed after the whuppin' in Florida. Marquis is going tomorrow, which normally makes me cringe, but he's pitched fantastic his last 3 starts while Contreras has been horrible his last 2. Fingers crossed the Wrigley-winning streak continues to lucky 13 tomorrow.

[epo]

They've got a young core of quality offensive talent locked up for some time, and if their key starters can stay healthy, they'll be a threat for at least a few season. I'm serious, Yost's moronic managing is the biggest boon to division rivals right now outside of the injuries they've faced. If they fire him, pick up another quality starter and sharpen up the pen, we're in trouble.

I'm gonna be nice about this...Mojo stop reading the blogs and understand that Yost is actually a good manager. Oh wait...what evidence do I have...Baseball America named Ned Yost the #3 manager in the NL behind Cox & LaRussa ....quote the troof here. (http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/majors/features/264582.html)

At the end of the day, Yost is teaching a club that doesn't know how to win, how to win and do so on the big league level. You Cubs fans are boring in your critiques.

[TheMojoPin]

I'm gonna be nice about this...Mojo stop reading the blogs and understand that Yost is actually a good manager. Oh wait...what evidence do I have...Baseball America named Ned Yost the #3 manager in the NL behind Cox & LaRussa ....quote the troof here. (http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/majors/features/264582.html)

At the end of the day, Yost is teaching a club that doesn't know how to win, how to win and do so on the big league level. You Cubs fans are boring in your critiques.

I'm not saying Yost is bad as a slam on the Brewers...I'm saying it as a slam on Yost. The Brewers are a good team and he's a terrible manager. I'll give BA LaRussa, obviously, but Cox? Cox has been sliding for years now. No wonder BA is such a joke rag, plus that poll isn't even BA picking them...it's a survey of other managers. Most baseball mangers each year are horrible and clearly not fit to be managing. Baseball managers usually have the least ability to actually make their team win, yet are able to and usually do cause incredible damage.

And what does "they don't know how to win" even mean? These aren't raw rookies out there. These are, for the most part, talented players who have shown plenty of times now they know how to play and how to win. I have no idea why you would bsically pick the manager over a team like the Brewers have. Yost is an anchor that's only going to drag them down.

[TheMojoPin]

I swear, all of the Cubs' big comeback wins have happened this year while I've been at work.

Here's Aramis' game-winner called by Len and Bob:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/BBfEmiPde_A&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/BBfEmiPde_A&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Here it is called by the Sox' abomination of a broadcast team. Love the minute of silence:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/OteyG2LlJhs&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/OteyG2LlJhs&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Here's some great photos:

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/b2/fullj.496c8df92b91311a378f64402cb4e8f5/496c8df92b91311a378f64402cb4e8f5-getty-80333181jd009_chicago_white.jpg

http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/65c09190-5273-42da-aa53-229d137fe191.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/59/fullj.b0847165ae68033f712dad90d472cbfd/b0847165ae68033f712dad90d472cbfd-getty-80333181jd008_chicago_white.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/59/fullj.1e7f65e3246840d37e365d4b3f57b8f2/1e7f65e3246840d37e365d4b3f57b8f2-getty-80333181jd010_chicago_white.jpg

http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2008-06/40219041.jpg

Aramis' batflip was badass.

Good news about Zambrano. I like the idea of him getting 2-3 starts off to be sure and give him some rest for the second half. The talk about Soriano coming back quicker than expected is just silly. Good to hear Lou dismiss it...I'd much rather make sure he's fully healed before he comes back, and I hope they maybe give him a couple minor league rehab starts this time to shake off the rust.

This win was definitely needed after the whuppin' in Florida. Marquis is going tomorrow, which normally makes me cringe, but he's pitched fantastic his last 3 starts while Contreras has been horrible his last 2. Fingers crossed the Wrigley-winning streak continues to lucky 13 tomorrow.

Bumping all this since Epo's coma-inducing Brewers talk relegated it too quickly to the last page.

[epo]

Bumping all this since Epo's coma-inducing Brewers talk relegated it too quickly to the last page.

I'm sorry....who is the only NL Central team with a winning record at Wrigley Field this season.....hmmm...

http://www.sportslogos.net/images/logos/53/1477/full/6187.gif

Oh yea...that's right.....

[Ritalin]

I have to admit, I hate that "go Cubs go" song.

cringe-y

[TheMojoPin]

I'm sorry....who is the only NL Central team with a winning record at Wrigley Field this season.....hmmm...

The Cubs are an NL Central team with a 30-8 record at Wrigley.

[TheMojoPin]

I have to admit, I hate that "go Cubs go" song.

cringe-y

It is incredibly dorky, mostly due to the really dated music that goes along with it. When the music drops out towards the end and it's just the crowd chanting the chorus, it's much better.

[jauble]

Thanks for the videos/pictures mojo what a great comback. Jermaine Dye did knock the shit out of his home run though.

[TheMojoPin]

Wow.

Cubs just put up 9 in the 4th to go ahead 10-4. Edmonds hit 2 solo shots in the inning, and Aramis hit a 3-run bomb for his 3rd HR in 2 days.

I think it's safe to say they like playing at Wrigley.

[King Hippos Bandaid]

wow Marquis is always getting help


He should be 10-0 wth all the run support he gets


edit: 2 HRs for Edmonds in 1 inning, is this 2001

[TheMojoPin]

wow Marquis is always getting help


He should be 10-0 wth all the run support he gets


edit: 2 HRs for Edmonds in 1 inning, is this 2001

Edmonds' numbers with the Cubs:

.315/.354/.603

Yeah, I can't explain it. I'm not expecting it to last, but I'm enjoying the ride.

[Cito Gaston]

wow Marquis is always getting help


He should be 10-0 wth all the run support he gets


edit: 2 HRs for Edmonds in 1 inning, is this 2001

Fuck you asshole, it's 1993!

[Coco Puckett]

Fuck you asshole, it's 1993!

Sweet, I'm alive......ALIVE.



























and can see with both eyes

[TheMojoPin]

Fuck you asshole, it's 1993!

Then that means Steve Buchelle just won the game last night with a walkoff bomb to dead center.

Crazy talk.

[TheMojoPin]

Sweet, I'm alive......ALIVE.


and can see with both eyes

As you hold a cheeseburger in one hand and beat a woman into hamburger with the other.

[spoon]

Isn't that the ronfez.net way? ....if they could land a woman....

[King Hippos Bandaid]

Fuck you asshole, it's 1993!


you are right

I love you Cito

Bring Back Dave Stieb

[IMSlacker]

Another rough outing for Carlos Marmol. I'm worried.

Oh, and the Steve Goodman song is fucking awesome. I've already taught my daughter all of the words.

Baseball season’s underway
Well you better get ready for a brand new day
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today.
They’re singing …
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today.
They got the power, they got the speed
To be the best in the National League
Well this is the year and the Cubs are real
So come on down to Wrigley Field.
We’re singing now …
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today.
Baseball time is here again
You can catch it all on WGN
So stamp your feet and clap your hands
Chicago Cubs got the greatest fans.
You’re singing now …
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today
Go, Cubs, go
Go, Cubs, go
Hey, Chicago, what do you say
The Cubs are gonna win today

[Ritalin]

I'm sorry....who is the only NL Central team with a winning record at Wrigley Field this season.....hmmm...

http://www.sportslogos.net/images/logos/53/1477/full/6187.gif

Oh yea...that's right.....

The Cubs are an NL Central team with a 30-8 record at Wrigley.

FACE!

[TheMojoPin]

The "AJ SUCKS" chants rule.

[TheMojoPin]

This was a fun inning:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/e8rmcwdF4fU&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/e8rmcwdF4fU&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[ozzie]

This was a fun inning:

The look of helplessness and despair on Guillen's face after Edmond's second shot made it even sweeter!

[Ritalin]

Awesome game today.

I think I'll go over to the White Sox thread and talk some shit.

Oh, right.

[cougarjake13]

Awesome game today.

I think I'll go over to the White Sox thread and talk some shit.

Oh, right.



now would be the perfect time for a white sox fan to say

we won a championship recently, cubs fans when was yours ??


but no w.sawx fans

[TheMojoPin]

now would be the perfect time for a white sox fan to say

we won a championship recently, cubs fans when was yours ??


but no w.sawx fans

Lowest rated World Series of all time.

It's like it never happened.

I almost feel bad for the White Sox. The press has to almost always tie in the Cubs to anything they ask the WS players and coaches because the WS will forever exist in the shadow of the Cubs. No matter if they won a bunch of World Series, or hell, had a long stretch of being much better (the 90's), this is ultimately a Cubs town and the national media looks at it that way, too. Forever the runts.

[TheMojoPin]

So the WS, sufferers of the city's biggest inferiority complex, have been talking shit all weekend about the Cubs and Wrigley and now AJ Alphabet is calling the fans "idiots without jobs" (nevermind that 4 of the 6 Cubs/WS games are weekend games)...guess the "AJ SUCKS" chants yesterday got under his skin. I hope the Cubs stay classy and keep taking the high road and sweep them out of Wrigley. Me, I'll remember a less classy but much awesomer moment:

http://images.mccoveychronicles.com/images/admin/aj_mot3.jpg

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/6494/aj5jl.jpg

Barrett may hae been a bust, but he'll always be a minor legend for that moment.

[ozzie]

Anyone catch Sabathia's jack in L.A. yesterday? (Estimated at 440')

And, his third win in a row, and another 10 K's.

The Indians are now 35 - 40... 6.5 games out of first.

They'd be crazy not to deal him while they can.

[Snoogans]

the white sox are ass. How the fuck are they in first?

[Kevin]

the white sox are ass. How the fuck are they in first?

You're just jelous because your Dodgers suck.

[Snoogans]

You're just jelous because your Dodgers suck.

SON OF A BITCH.



You will pay for what you did Fallon. You will pay big time.

[Ritalin]

Whooo hooo.

5-0, and Dempster is dealing

[Snoogans]

its 6-1

[TheMojoPin]

It's nice to follow up a sweep at the hands of one division leader with a sweep of another divsion leader.

Fuck of, Black Sox.

I was incredibly apprehansive about Dempster starting again, but he's shut me up pretty well about that. The guy is pitching like he's one of the best in all of baseball.

[TheMojoPin]

Look, I know sports fans are often pretty dumb, but the fans that wear the Chinese coolie hats to "honor" Fukudome are just horrible.

I'm talking about these:

http://www.squadronhq.com/ekmps/shops/squadronhqlim/images/ch1%5Bekm%5D502x300%5Bekm%5D.jpg

Not only is it really stupid and at least borderline offensive, but it's typically Chinese, and Fukudome is Japanese.

Gaaaaaaah.

[Kevin]

Look, I know sports fans are often pretty dumb, but the fans that wear the Chinese coolie hats to "honor" Fukudome are just horrible.

I'm talking about these:

http://www.squadronhq.com/ekmps/shops/squadronhqlim/images/ch1%5Bekm%5D502x300%5Bekm%5D.jpg

Not only is it really stupid and at least borderline offensive, but it's typically Chinese, and Fukudome is Japanese.

Gaaaaaaah.

Chinese, Japanese, Korean, they are all the same, right?

[TheMojoPin]

Chinese, Japanese, Korean, they are all the same, right?

Apparently.

I'm sure those dipshits loaded up on those goddamn "HORRY COW!" t-shirts, too.

[Kevin]

Apparently.

I'm sure those dipshits loaded up on those goddamn "HORRY COW!" t-shirts, too.

I'm sure Robert Horry is gunna wan't a piece of that action.

[TheMojoPin]

In hitting 4 HR's off of the White Sox in 3 games, Aramis has more HR's against the White Sox than any player in the American League.

I know it's only 2 games, but Eric Patterson really came through. 5-8 with a HR, a double, 2 walks and a stolen base. He's already more success than his older brother Corey ever did in the minors, so hopefully that trend will continue in the bigs.

[A.J.]

guess the "AJ SUCKS" chants yesterday got under his skin..

It never stops hurting.

Look, I know sports fans are often pretty dumb, but the fans that wear the Chinese coolie hats to "honor" Fukudome are just horrible.

I'm talking about these:

http://www.squadronhq.com/ekmps/shops/squadronhqlim/images/ch1%5Bekm%5D502x300%5Bekm%5D.jpg

Not only is it really stupid and at least borderline offensive, but it's typically Chinese, and Fukudome is Japanese.

Gaaaaaaah.

Yeah, I was thinking the same thing when I saw that last night. Are they going to wear a bullfighter costume to honor Zambrano?

[Ritalin]

Whooo hooo.

5-0, and Dempster is dealing

its 6-1

Yeah, I forgot that I DVR'd it. I almost always record sporting events and start watching it an hour or so later. It's especially effective for baseball.

[Ritalin]

Look, I know sports fans are often pretty dumb, but the fans that wear the Chinese coolie hats to "honor" Fukudome are just horrible.

I'm talking about these:

Not only is it really stupid and at least borderline offensive, but it's typically Chinese, and Fukudome is Japanese.

Gaaaaaaah.

You know, there is a certain brand of Chicago white bread borderline racist dumb that you just don't find anywhere else. Chicago fans can also be excruciatingly embarrassing when their teams are doing well, and it even extends to the media. Here in New York - and I'm from Chicago, so I'm not big timing anyone, just making a point - the Yankee/Mets games are a very big deal, but they don't lead the local newscasts. In Chicago it's probably the first 4 stories.

There's also a big dumbshit, "look how stupid I look", Parrothead-ish streak in Chicago as well. If you're walking through an airport and you see a guy wearing a sombrero, odds are he's from Chicago.

He's also probably as red as a lobster.

Chinese, Japanese, Korean, they are all the same, right?

http://alllooksame.com/

[TheMojoPin]

You know, there is a certain brand of Chicago white bread borderline racist dumb that you just don't find anywhere else.

There's nothing borderline about it. This is the most segregated major ciy in America. If Boston is the shouting, ridiculous skinhead of racist cities, Chicago is the buttoned-down, business as usual David Duke of racist cities.

Chicago fans can also be excruciatingly embarrassing when their teams are doing well, and it even extends to the media. Here in New York - and I'm from Chicago, so I'm not big timing anyone, just making a point - the Yankee/Mets games are a very big deal, but they don't lead the local newscasts. In Chicago it's probably the first 4 stories.

Well, yeah. Chicago is a huge city, but it's no NYC. I'm not gonna front...NYC is the busiest city in the world by far, on a massively international scale. There's always going to bigger news stories no matter what the baseball teams do. I also think that a much more significant percentage of Chicago's population is passionate about the city's sports than NYC. Tha's not a slam on NYC...it's just so damn big and densely packed, there's too many people who don't give a shit about sports there to lead off with a sports story unless someone wins a championship. That said, you're completely exaggerating the news reports leading with the baseball teams, or sports period. The only station I've seen do that is WGN, and they only do it when the Cubs do something like sweep the White Sox or make the playoffs or something along those lines, and that's because WGN has been the television home for the Cubs for 60 years now. WGN is basially YES if YES showed crappy movies, old sitcoms and had a nightly news show. The other network stations never lead off with baseball or really any sport unless there's a Chicago championship involved, and we all know how rarely that happens. You're completely wrong if you think the Chicago news shows lead off with sports stories on anything even close to a regular basis.

[Ritalin]

There's nothing borderline about it. This is the most segregated major ciy in America. If Boston is the shouting, ridiculous skinhead of racist cities, Chicago is the buttoned-down, business as usual David Duke of racist cities.



Well, yeah. Chicago is a huge city, but it's no NYC. I'm not gonna front...NYC is the busiest city in the world by far, on a massively international scale. There's always going to bigger news stories no matter what the baseball teams do. I also think that a much more significant percentage of Chicago's population is passionate about the city's sports than NYC. Tha's not a slam on NYC...it's just so damn big and densely packed, there's too many people who don't give a shit about sports there to lead off with a sports story unless someone wins a championship. That said, you're completely exaggerating the news reports leading with the baseball teams, or sports period. The only station I've seen do that is WGN, and they only do it when the Cubs do something like sweep the White Sox or make the playoffs or something along those lines, and that's because WGN has been the television home for the Cubs for 60 years now. WGN is basially YES if YES showed crappy movies, old sitcoms and had a nightly news show. The other network stations never lead off with baseball or really any sport unless there's a Chicago championship involved, and we all know how rarely that happens. You're completely wrong if you think the Chicago news shows lead off with sports stories on anything even close to a regular basis.

Ok, you could be right about that.

(you don't have to explain WGN to me. Little Ritalin sat in front of the TV on plenty of snowy days waiting for Ray Raynor to tell him that St. Mary's was closed for the day. I'm also a DePaul alum, class of '96)

But I do have a point that the city tends to hyperventilate over their teams just a little.

On the plus side, they're (we're) good knowledgeable fans. The odds are good that you could walk into any bar in Chicago, pick out the hottest chick, and she'll know who the starting quarterback of the Bears is. That's pretty good.

[Kevin]

Errrr....Mojo....comment?? (http://ballhype.com/video/ozzie_guillen_and_lou_piniella_rap_in_chevy_commer cial/)

[Fallon]

Errrr....Mojo....comment?? (http://ballhype.com/video/ozzie_guillen_and_lou_piniella_rap_in_chevy_commer cial/)

This makes me not like Mojo anymore.

[Kevin]

This makes me not like Mojo anymore.

I think this may have cost the Cubs another 100years without a title.

[IMSlacker]

They showed that after the game on Saturday. It's an embarrassment to the whole city. It's also the single best reason I've seen so far to end inter-league play.

[TheMojoPin]

Errrr....Mojo....comment?? (http://ballhype.com/video/ozzie_guillen_and_lou_piniella_rap_in_chevy_commer cial/)

I stared at the TV in slackjawed horror when it came on.

Even worse, there's two other commercials they made together for that promotion.

Like Slacker said, as if we needed another argument against dumbass interleague play...

Oh, and Joe Morgan...the baskets above the ivy are not called, nor have ever been called, "Banks' Boulevard." Morgan kept saying that to slam Banks as if the Cubs installed them to pad his HR totals over his career. Nevermind the baskets were put in just one year before Banks retired and were added because fans were interfering too much with flyballs and were in danger of toppling onto the field due to the bleacher design. IT HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH BANKS' AMAZING CAREER, YOU HACK FUCK. NOBODY HAS EVER CALLED THEM THAT EXCEPT FOR YOU WHEN YOU MADE IT UP LAST NIGHT. Morgan completely made this up on air so he could yet again slam the Cubs. He never misses a chance to take a shot at Banks, Sandberg or Santo. Fuck you, Joe Morgan. You're the worst broadcaster in the history of sports.

[TheMojoPin]

Holy crap, I am cursed.

The Cubs have only lost 9 games at home, yet I've been there for 5 of them, including tonight.

"Classic" Cubs tonight, with bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th, no outs, and then the next 3 batters strike out.

SIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGH.

Thank God for crappy beer.

It's oddly comforting that almost all of the Cubs' "big" losses, like tonight, have basically been the result of errors. It's not comforting, however, the Lee was lucky he didn't hit into THREE fucking double plays in a single game.

[Kevin]

Holy crap, I am cursed.

The Cubs have only lost 9 games at home, yet I've been there for 5 of them, including tonight.

"Classic" Cubs tonight, with bases loaded in the bottom of the 9th, no outs, and then the next 3 batters strike out.

SIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGH.

Thank God for crappy beer.

It's oddly comforting that almost all of the Cubs' "big" losses, like tonight, have basically been the result of errors. It's not comforting, however, the Lee was lucky he didn't hit into THREE fucking double plays in a single game.

I think great great grampa Mojo first decided to be a cub fan back in 1908. So Cub fans, you know what you need to do to break this curse... ALL MOJO'S MUST DIE!!!!

[TheMojoPin]

Well, congrats to the Orioles taking advantage of Jason "Catshit" Marquis taking a huge dump on the mound today and being the first team since the Brewers opening weekend to take a series at Wrigley this season. Hopefully this lights a fire to kick the balls of the White Sox again this weekend...but I doubt it.

[TheMojoPin]

Wow, no way around it...this is a flat-out ass-kicking with the Orioles up 11-0 in just the 6th inning. None of the runs scored off of HR's, too...ironically, this is what the Cubs have done to to other teams plenty of times this season here at Wrigley. And getting shut out by a complete nobody scrub? CLASSIC Cubs. Blech. Zambrano, Soriano, Johnson, Fukudome...come back. We miss you.

[Knowledged_one]

Just remember you cant spell Mojo

without

http://www.distantreplays.com/distant/assets/product_images/PAAAIAJKALEGGACMt.jpg

[TheMojoPin]

The hits just keep on coming...Aramis Ramirez is gonna miss the next 3 games due to a family emergency. Thankfully, Zambrano will be back for his next start, but man, this team is REALLY missing Soriano and Johnson. Soriano's bat is the obvious missing piece, but Johnson had been very good against lefties all year and had been coming up huge with runners in scoring position.

Injuries are annoying.

[IMSlacker]

Thank God interleague play is over. Bring on the Giants!

[TheMojoPin]

Thank God interleague play is over. Bring on the Giants!

Missing Aramis, Soriano and Johnson, on the road, Edmonds and Fukudome not at 100% and facing Linecum and Cain? The Cubs will be lucky to split the series.

[epo]

Well, congrats to the Orioles taking advantage of Jason "Catshit" Marquis taking a huge dump on the mound today and being the first team since the Brewers opening weekend to take a series at Wrigley this season. Hopefully this lights a fire to kick the balls of the White Sox again this weekend...but I doubt it.

Didn't the Brewers actually win two series at Wrigley this season?

[TheMojoPin]

Didn't the Brewers actually win two series at Wrigley this season?

Yup. I could only remember the opening series when I typed that, and I think the announcers said the Orioles were only the second team to win a series at Wrigley this year, but I heard it as "second series."

[epo]

Probably. I could only remember the opening series when I typed that.

Actually I just looked it up...they took two of three the opening series & then took 2 of 3 at the end of April/first of May as well.

While I don't wish an injury upon anyone, I certainly don't mind seeing the Cubs banged up right now.

[jauble]

Hell of a game by DeRosa...its kind of nice to have the giants to rebound off of after this last weekend.

[ChrisTheCop]

Lilly once again got me a W in my fantasy league.

She's the best.

[Kevin]

Lilly once again got me a W in my fantasy league.

She's the best.

Thats Ted Lily, Chris, Ted.

[ChrisTheCop]

Oh....Thats very different.....
Never mind.
http://www.pe.com/imagesdaily/2008/04-25/tv_saturday_night_live_300.jpg

[K.C.]

Gammons On The Cubs' Starter Pursuit
By Tim Dierkes [July 1 at 10:58am CST]

ESPN's Peter Gammons has a new blog entry up, with the focus on the Cubs' desire to add a starting pitcher. Gammons talked to a Cubs official who said, "We almost certainly will do something. But we really don't want to give up Sean Gallagher at this point."

Here's a quick rundown of the candidates:

* C.C. Sabathia - Cubs don't believe they have enough to get him.
* Rich Harden - Gammons doesn't specifically say the Cubs are interested, just that they're monitoring Oakland.
* Randy Wolf - The Cubs have interest, and Gammons says Wolf would waive his no-trade to go to a contender. Plus, Wolf treated the Cubs well when they courted him in the 2006-07 offseason. Gammons adds that the Padres still like Matt Murton. History has shown that Jim Hendry and Kevin Towers work well together on trades.
* A.J. Burnett - The Cubs "also keep looking" at him. Last Thursday, Gammons' colleague Jayson Stark hadn't found "any indication that the Cubs have even batted his name around."
* Aaron Cook - Gammons says the Cubs would love him, but Rockies' GM Dan O'Dowd said earlier this month, "We're not doing anything with Cookie."
* Bronson Arroyo, Kevin Millwood - Gammons says the Cubs have "kicked around" these names.


Now, my team has only won one World Series in 125 years, but at least their one was in the last 30.

If I was coming up on the 100th anniversary of my franchise's last World Series championship, I think I'd feel just a LITTLE sense of urgency, to where if it costs me Sean Gallagher to get Sabathia, DO IT.


Now, Gammons is senile, and not a good reporter anymore, but if there's any truth to it, it reminds me of the 1993 Phillies.

John Kruk still tells this infamous story where the Phillies were offered Randy Johnson for Ben Rivera and Tyler Green.

Lee Thomas, the GM at the time, mulled it over, and decided they couldn't give up the farm (for a good laugh, go to baseball-reference and find Rivera and Green's player pages).

No doubt in my mind the Phils would have won the '93 Series with the Big Unit.

Sabathia would easily make the Cubbies the most formidable team in the NL.

[TheMojoPin]

Now, my team has only won one World Series in 125 years, but at least their one was in the last 30.

If I was coming up on the 100th anniversary of my franchise's last World Series championship, I think I'd feel just a LITTLE sense of urgency, to where if it costs me Sean Gallagher to get Sabathia, DO IT.


Now Gammons is senile, and not a good reporter anymore, but if there's any truth to it, it reminds me of the 1993 Phillies.

John Kruk still tells this infamous story where the Phillies were offered Randy Johnson for Ben Rivera and Tyler Green.

Lee Thomas, the GM at the time, mulled it over, and decided they couldn't give up the farm (for a good laugh, go to baseball-reference and find Rivera and Green's player pages).

No doubt in my mind the Phils would have won the '93 Series with the Big Unit.

Sabathia would easily make the Cubbies the most formidable team in the NL.

I agree with you completely. The Cubs should not be saying any of their prospects are untouchable right now. If Gasllgher can be part of a deal to get you Sabathia, YOU FUCKING TRADE GALLAGHER. You're basically turning him into Sabathia in the rotation. How the fuck do you not do that? I'm hoping those comments are just playing the deal game. As much as I hate Hendry, making big trades is the only thing he's good at, so that's the only reason I think the Cubs have a chance...but I won't be surprised at all if Sabathia is on the Brewers in a month.

[IMSlacker]

I actually experience physical pain watching Jason Marquis pitch. God, he's horrible.

[Kevin]

I actually experience physical pain watching Jason Marquis pitch. God, he's horrible.

Did you say Jason Marquis?

Mojo in 3..2...1

[TheMojoPin]

I'm too busy seething.

[epo]

I agree with you completely. The Cubs should not be saying any of their prospects are untouchable right now. If Gasllgher can be part of a deal to get you Sabathia, YOU FUCKING TRADE GALLAGHER. You're basically turning him into Sabathia in the rotation. How the fuck do you not do that? I'm hoping those comments are just playing the deal game. As much as I hate Hendry, making big trades is the only thing he's good at, so that's the only reason I think the Cubs have a chance...but I won't be surprised at all if Sabathia is on the Brewers in a month.

In today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, General Manager Doug Melvin told the paper that he wouldn't "feed rumors" regarding Sabathia, but was "motivated" to add a pitcher. Link here. (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=767719)

The rumor around Milwaukee is that the Brewers may be willing to give up 3B Mat Gamel, who is listed as Baseball America's #2 prospect in June (http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/prospect-hot-sheet/2008/266253.html), behind Jay Bruce.

[K.C.]

In today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, General Manager Doug Melvin told the paper that he wouldn't "feed rumors" regarding Sabathia, but was "motivated" to add a pitcher. Link here. (http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=767719)

The rumor around Milwaukee is that the Brewers may be willing to give up 3B Mat Gamel, who is listed as Baseball America's #2 prospect in June (http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/prospect-hot-sheet/2008/266253.html), behind Jay Bruce.

Peter Gammons was just on Baseball Tonight saying he expects Sabathia to most likely land with the Brewers or Phillies.

Said the Brewers might make Rickie Weeks available, and offer him with one of their top Double-A prospects.

[TheMojoPin]

Peter Gammons was just on Baseball Tonight saying he expects Sabathia to most likely land with the Brewers or Phillies.

Said the Brewers might make Rickie Weeks available, and offer him with one of their top Double-A prospects.

Gammons is an idiot if he thinks the Phillies have a chance if the Brewers want him. Their farm may be even worse than the Cubs. If Gamel is available as part of the deal, boom, it's done unless the Indians have a brain fart or the Rays make a killer offer.

[K.C.]

Gammons is an idiot if he thinks the Phillies have a chance if the Brewers want him. Their farm may be even worse than the Cubs. If Gamel is available as part of the deal, boom, it's done unless the Indians have a brain fart or the Rays make a killer offer.

Well, I agree Gammons is an idiot.


But I think his rationale was that, while he didn't name Gamel, he thought the Brewers may be 'reluctant' to deal their top prospects, which I can only assume includes him.

The Brewers have more chips and are obviously the front-runners.

But the Phillies actually have a few more chips, that they're willing to deal, than the Cubs, Yanks (Hughes being hurt means he's untradable at this point) and White Sox.

It really depends. The Phils also have pitching to offer...I know the Brewers have great position players in their system...I don't know enough about them to know if they have equally as good pitchers.

[IMSlacker]

Marquis has actually looked like a major league pitcher in the second and third innings.

[epo]

It really depends. The Phils also have pitching to offer...I know the Brewers have great position players in their system...I don't know enough about them to know if they have equally as good pitchers.

The Brewers do not have much pitching depth to deal and would be reluctant to do so. They however have a dearth of hitting prospects and their Double A Huntsville club is considered to be stocked.

I can't see a couple of B-level pitchers convincing the Indians if the Brewers are willing to move Gamel.

[K.C.]

The Brewers do not have much pitching depth to deal and would be reluctant to do so. They however have a dearth of hitting prospects and their Double A Huntsville club is considered to be stocked.

I can't see a couple of B-level pitchers convincing the Indians if the Brewers are willing to move Gamel.

I can't argue that.


I'd say the Rays are a sleeper for him, but they're notoriously one of the worst, and stingiest, trading partners in baseball.

That said, they've never really been in a position to buy before, so who knows...but I really can't see them dealing top prospects.

[Kevin]

I can't argue that.


I'd say the Rays are a sleeper for him, but they're notoriously one of the worst, and stingiest, trading partners in baseball.

That said, they've never really been in a position to buy before, so who knows...but I really can't see them dealing top prospects.

That was their old awful owner.

This new has been on Mike and Maddog 2 or 3 times this year, and he said he will def spend money this year.

[TheMojoPin]

But the Phillies actually have a few more chips, that they're willing to deal, than the Cubs.

I don't agree with this at all. The general consensus is that the Cubs are willing to trade the farm to win this season. Zell has said money isn't an issue and he wants the team to win because it'll only get him a bigger return when the sale goes through. I can see the argument that the Phillies shitty prospects are less shitty than the Cubs', but there's nobobdy the Cubs will hold on to if it means not getting an impact trade. Any talk of "untouchables" is likely just trying to play the trading game.

[K.C.]

I don't agree with this at all. The general consensus is that the Cubs are willing to trade the farm to win this season. Zell has said money isn't an issue and he wants the team to win because it'll only get him a bigger return when the sale goes through. I can see the argument that the Phillies shitty prospects are less shitty than the Cubs', but there's nobobdy the Cubs will hold on to if it means not getting an impact trade. Any talk of "untouchables" is likely just trying to play the trading game.

Rumor is that the Phillies feel the same way this year.

Pat Gillick is retiring at the end of the year, and the reality is starting to set in that the window with Utley, Rollins, Howard, Burrell, and Hamels could be starting to close.

They could likely lose both Burrell, and Lidge after this season...and it's not totally out of the question that Howard could be gone after this season.

I don't know what the Cubs have system wise vs. the Phillies, but there's even been rumors that the Phillies may tie Shane Victorino in any trade, in addition to the pitching prospects, which would be pretty attractive (although semi-crazy...I know they like their Double-A Reading OF Greg Golson, but to count on him for the last two months of a pennant race...)

Personally, I hope the Phillies don't sell the farm...but that's not the indication.

[albo60s]

Peter Gammons was just on Baseball Tonight saying he expects Sabathia to most likely land with the Brewers or Phillies.

Said the Brewers might make Rickie Weeks available, and offer him with one of their top Double-A prospects.

Oh GOD, please trade Weeks away. He doesn't know what a bunt is. He is batting out of position, in his defense. Defense also very marginal.
Brad Nelson will be available in a trade. Doing very well at Nashville & blocked by Fielder & LaPorta. A team would be wise to get him included in a trade.

[TheMojoPin]

Fuck, fuck, FUCK.

I was dreading facing Cain as it was, but Marquis miracuously wasn't horrible, and yet the Cubs are staggered, despite getting a bunch of walks. Missing Aramis, Soriano and even Theriot stating REALLY hurts.

[jauble]

D Lee has really long strides..the triple was nice.

The pop fly to third however was by Ward was not.

[TheMojoPin]

It's a fake rally. All of the Cubs' comebacks always happen earlier in the game. Lee will not cross the plate.

Alright, touche.

The Cubs will not tie this game.

[jauble]

I loathe moments like this

[TheMojoPin]

Ugh.

FonteNO.

[TheMojoPin]

STOP DRAGGING IT OUT.

It just makes it hurt worse.

[jauble]

damnit

:furious::wallbash::flush:

[TheMojoPin]

I don't care how well he's done this year...I will always fucking hate Ryan Theriot. Him and his fellow midget LSU buddy can go fuck themselves.

[IMSlacker]

Has anyone else noticed that Fukudome has looked like dog shit lately?

[TheMojoPin]

Has anyone else noticed that Fukudome has looked like dog shit lately?

Just a couple of games. His numbers being in the leadoff spot are actually quite good.

[TheMojoPin]

So now Carlos Marmol sucks, which isn't good since he's been such a huge part of anchoring the bullpen and shutting teams down. It's funny hearing some Cubs fas flip out like there's "something wrong" with him. It's pretty easy to figure out what's wrong...his fastball is garbage. Always has been. It has little to no movement. He's been around long enough for teams to know the advance report is to lay off his slider since it's always straddled being called a ball or strike. Lay off the slider, he gets frustrated, lays a meatball across the plate and bam...you can rock him.

This isn't rocket science.

[TheMojoPin]

Potentially huge news from the only independent Cubs site worth a damn: (http://www.thecubreporter.com/2008/07/04/does-hill-turn-corner)

Prior to the game, Rich Hill threw a simulated game that featured his new delivery, and it looks like he may actually have found the cure for his version of Steve Blass Disease.

And the results this morning were that he was able to throw his fastball and curve over the plate pitch-after-pitch, just like he was doing in 2006 and into Spring Training 2007 and through most of last season. He was absolutely unhittable today.

The curves literally buckled the knees of the young AZL Cubs hitters, and (probably more importantly) he was able to throw his fastball for strikes And maybe most importantly, Hill looked relaxed and he even was able to crack a smile.

Obviously, this is just one outing, but even this is light years different than how bad Hill has looked this season. This is how Hill looked when he was fantastic in all of 2007 and the 2nd half of 2006, plus the seasons he dominated in the minors. If Hill can switch it back on, that's a massive boost to the starting rotation, especially since it looks like Sabathia is almost certainly going to the Brewers.

[TheMojoPin]

Shit, the Cubs are about give up a walk off come from behind win to the damn Cardinals.

Frustrating.

[TheMojoPin]

Hill follows up his last awesome minor league start with this line today in Arizona:

4 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 6 K/1 BB

Another big step, to be sure. If the Cubs can trade for a solid starter and bring a capable or better Hill back to the rotation, that makes a MASSIVE difference.

[jauble]

Argh this is infuriating. TBS is blacked out....I guess you could say I'm inconsolable.

[epo]

Argh this is infuriating. TBS is blacked out....I guess you could say I'm inconsolable.

I'm sorry.

[IMSlacker]

Nice start for Sean Marshall today. Also, Marmol has looked good for the second day in a row.

[TheMojoPin]

Nice to see the Cubs wrap up this ugly road trip with a series win against the Cardinals.

Some definite positives as they head back for 7 games at Wrigley against the Reds and Giants before the ASB:

-The starting pitching really is looking good. Dempster bounced right back from his bad start against the White Sox. Lilly keeps looking better and better. Zambrano came back without missing a beat. Marshall has been looking real strong...hell, even Marquis didn't really suck. With Gallagher ready if needed and a trade ideally coming up plus Rich Hill now with 2 great starts in Arizona, this bodes VERY well for the Cubs.

-Johnson came back and picked right up helping out quietly defensively and offensively. Soriano is coming along very well, already taking light BP again. Hopefully within 2-3 weeks he'll have gotten some rehab starts and be back in. Getting him back will be huge, especially since the Cubs didn't give up 1st with him and Zambrano out. I really think that the time for the Cardinals and Brewers to pounce was in the last 2-3 weeks, and they weren't able to capitalize. The Cubs are only going to get stronger from here on out barring serious injuries.

-Lee's hitting again. Soto is clobbering it again (15th homer today). Aramis is coming out of his slump. DeRosa is producing. Theriot is still hitting. Fukudome is solid. Ward and Murton and even Fontenot are helping big off the bench. There are no easy outs on this team.

-Marmol hopefully has started to right the ship. The league obviously adjusted to him and he was getting lit up, but that last 2 days he faced the heart of the Cardinals' lineup ad shut them down 1-2-3. So long as he can get ahead in the count and not fall down 3-1 or 3-0, he's OK. On top of that, Neil Cotts has been looking dynamite and Howry has just been getting better and better. Despite the blown save last night, Wood has been amazing. With Lieber as the long man, Gallagher now in the pen and Eyre due back soon, the bullpen is very solid...something that is likely going to again be the weakness of the Brewers.

I'm not counting the Brewers out, but I really don't see the Sabathia trade giving them the push unless they get some serious bullpen help. Tha Cardinla,s however, won't even make the playoffs. Book it.

[TheMojoPin]

The downside of Hill doing well again is it may convince Hendry that it's not necessary to go nuts and get fancy to acquire another really good starter, and then he'll settle for Randy Wolf and/or Maddix, neither of which is better than any of the options the Cubs already have. I'll give Hendry the benefit of the doubt since trading is the one thing he has generally been good at and he's got some time left.

[Towelie]

Rich Harden to the Cubs is done.

Details soon.

[Towelie]

Harden and Gaudin for Gallagher, Murton, Patterson and Donaldson

[cougarjake13]

The downside of Hill doing well again is it may convince Hendry that it's not necessary to go nuts and get fancy to acquire another really good starter, and then he'll settle for Randy Wolf and/or Maddix, neither of which is better than any of the options the Cubs already have. I'll give Hendry the benefit of the doubt since trading is the one thing he has generally been good at and he's got some time left.

so much for that line of thinking

[TheMojoPin]

Holy shit, I did not expect this to go down until the deadline, if it did at all.

If Harden can stay healthy (and that's a HUGE "if"), this is a stellar pickup for the Cubs, especially since they still have Hill and Marshall. Gaudin is nothing special, but appears to be a very solid reliever and has been great out of the bullpen recently.

I have a feeling Hendry was trying to do this without trading Gallagher (probably Marshall instead), and likely got Gaudin added in agreeing to move Gallagher.

[K.C.]

Holy shit, I did not expect this to go down until the deadline, if it did at all.

If Harden can stay healthy (and that's a HUGE "if"), this is a stellar pickup for the Cubs, especially since they still have Hill and Marshall. Gaudin is nothing special, but appears to be a very solid reliever and has been great out of the bullpen recently.

I have a feeling Hendry was trying to do this without trading Gallagher (probably Marshall instead), and likely got Gaudin added in agreeing to move Gallagher.

Throwing down the gauntlet to Milwaukee. It was a great deal.

Now watch, the Cardinals will win the division.

[TheMojoPin]

Throwing down the gauntlet to Milwaukee. It was a great deal.

Now watch, the Cardinals will win the division.

Only if your doooooooooooooooooouches keep throwing games like they did tonight. Shut out by Pineiro with Hamels on the mound?!? JERKS.

[Ritalin]

Throwing down the gauntlet to Milwaukee. It was a great deal.

Now watch, the Cardinals will win the division.

Yeah.

Not so funny.

[TheMojoPin]

From Rotoworld: (http://www.rotoworld.com/content/features/column.aspx?sport=MLB&columnid=13&articleid=30681)

Gallagher, Patterson, Murton, and Donaldson is an interesting mix of current value and upside, but strike me as an underwhelming package for a potential stud like Harden, not to mention Gaudin. Of course, the deal will ultimately come down to whether or not Harden can stay healthy.

He has a 3.42 career ERA, including a 2.34 mark and 92-to-31 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 77 innings this season, but has started as many as 20 games just once, way back in 2004. If Harden stays relatively healthy this year and next—when the Cubs hold a reasonable team option—then the deal will end up being a steal for them. In that scenario the A's gave up an elite pitcher—and another very solid 25-year-old arm in Gaudin—at a sizable discount.

If Harden instead continues to struggle with injuries and offers only glimpses of greatness in between stints on the disabled list, then the A's at least picked up some useful depth, including a solid young starter to replace him. Even in that scenario the Cubs won't end up getting burned by the deal unless Gallagher develops far better than his track record suggests or Donaldson gets his bat on track and becomes a power-hitting catcher. Overall, it's a great gamble for Chicago.

Dempster is now the Cubs' third starter, but that didn't stop him from turning in yet another great performance Tuesday, as he held the Reds to one run on two hits in seven innings. If you ignore his rough start versus the White Sox on June 27, Dempster is now 10-2 with a 2.57 ERA on the year. Together, Zambrano, Harden, and Dempster are 24-7 with a 2.87 ERA and 263 strikeouts in 307 innings spread over 49 starts, which along with the NL's best offense is pretty damn scary.

[jauble]

I love seeing Z on base and what an oopsie that was by phillips.

[TheMojoPin]

I can't believe Lou is about to use Marmol in a 5-1 game.

Hey, fatass...remember Marmol's rough stretch just a little while ago after you kept sending him out in blowouts and shit? Yeah, don't do that again.

[IMSlacker]

I can't believe Lou is about to use Marmol in a 5-1 game.

Hey, fatass...remember Marmol's rough stretch just a little while ago after you kept sending him out in blowouts and shit? Yeah, don't do that again.

Lou seems to be on a mission to end Marmol's career as soon as possible. Baffling.

[TheMojoPin]

Lou seems to be on a mission to end Marmol's career as soon as possible. Baffling.

Man, it would have been great to let Gaudin work his way in with a cushy lead to get used to his new home field.

Or, hey, Lieber and Wuertz both exist and have been very good...why not use them for once?

Shit, might as well have just put Wood in there in the first place since he hadn't pitched since Saturday.

Lou's maaging of the bullpen never ceases to be hideous and baffling. It's fortunate that the Cubs have a good bullpen that can roll with his madness.

[IMSlacker]

ARAMABOMB!!!!

[TheMojoPin]

ARAMABOMB!!!!

Ever since he started wearing his socks up AKA the right way, he's been ripping.

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Got tickets to see Harden's debut tomorrow. Stay away, rain!

[IMSlacker]

Got tickets to see Harden's debut tomorrow. Stay away, rain!

I have to take my daughter to a birthday party today. Probably gonna miss at least the first 2-3 innings. Woe is me. Come on, one-hour rain delay!

[IMSlacker]

Well, that Wuertz for Hart move yesterday is already paying dividends.

[IMSlacker]

Mojo, if the Cubs blow this lead, you're never allowed to go to another game again.

[IMSlacker]

motherfucker!

[Kevin]

Mojo, if the Cubs blow this lead, you're never allowed to go to another game again.
Jinxy McMojo

[IMSlacker]

Back to 20 games over .500. Thank God for Sean Marshall and Reed Johnson.
I'm gonna have to take down my Carlos Marmol sig now that he has a ERA over 4.00.

[TheMojoPin]

Well, that Wuertz for Hart move yesterday is already paying dividends.

Today is a primo example of why you want Wuertz wih the team and getting regular pitching. He's an extreme groundball pitcher with a healthy helping of strikeouts and great numbers for the year, and he would have been perfect to come in after Mamrol gave up 2-3 runs.

In all, Lou's use of the bullpen remains horrid. Marmol was clearly off, and guys should have been throwing as soon as SF made it 7-4 with 1 out and 2 guys still on base. Sean Marshall was HUGE coming in and shutting down the Giants for 2 innings like he did.

A lot of Cubs fans are arguing that Marmol is "broken" mentally or physically, but he's so obviously not. He's a young pitcher who has has control problems more often than not. Hia biggest problem right now is that his fastball has little to no movement on it, so he has no backup if his slider and changeup are missing. Nothing looks wrong physically...he's still realising at the same points and his motions match when he was delaing. He just needs to adjust as the league has adjusted to him AND he's going through a rough oatch where his fastball is failing him. I'd have no problem sending him down for 2-3 weeks to work on getting it sharp again and bringing Wuertz back up ASAP.

Jesus, this game was insane. Welcome to Chicago, Mr. Harden.

[TheMojoPin]

Back to 20 games over .500. Thank God for Sean Marshall and Reed Johnson.
I'm gonna have to take down my Carlos Marmol sig now that he has a ERA over 4.00.

I kept mentioning how Reed being on the DL was hurting more than one would think off the bat. His numbers in general aren't flashy, but his numbers with RISP have been great all year and he's had a lot of huge RBI's.

And yes, I was all set to tag myself a jinx and never go back to Wrigley. So few games lost at home this season (10 or 11, I forget) and I've been to 7 of them. Madness.

[TheMojoPin]

You know a win is dramatic when Len's voice cracks:

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That tag looks a LOT closer in that clip than it did in person.

More rambling...as bad as that 9th was, it was even more frustrating that almost all of those hits were grounders that squeaked through the gaps or sloppy defense. Marmol and Theriot together had 3 critical chances to either get an out or two or at least hold a run and they just tanked it. On top of that, the Cubs had 5 seperate blasts over the game that died just barely in front of or against the wall thanks to the wind punching in.

[TheMojoPin]

Hill had another great outing in the minors: (http://thecubreporter.com/2008/07/12/hill-fitch-park)

Starting for the AZL Cubs versus he AZL Angels at Fitch Park Field #3 this morning, Rich Hill worked five shutout innings (68 pitches, 47 strikes, 8/0 GO/FO), allowing three hits (all three singles) and a walk, with five strikeouts. He really had his roundhouse curve and efficient two-seamer working today, as he went to a three ball count on only two of the 17 Angels hitters he faced.

Coupled with his previous outing last Sunday when he worked four innings of one hit ball with six K, Hill has now gone 9 IP, 4 H, 1 R (1 ER), 2 BB and 11 K over his last two outings since modifying his delivery under the auspices of Cubs Minor League Pitching Coordinator Mark Riggins and AZL Cubs Pitching Coach Rick Tronerud.

Hill almost certainly could have gone longer today, but there is a limit of five innings or 75 pitches (whichever comes first) for AZL pitchers, including rehabbers.

This could be huge.

[jauble]

Man I wish they could spread out that offense more between a few games.

[ChrisTheCop]

Soriano could be back as early as Wednesday!!!!

He's doing THAT well! Good news for him, and hopefully you.

[Ritalin]

Back to 20 games over .500. Thank God for Sean Marshall and Reed Johnson.
I'm gonna have to take down my Carlos Marmol sig now that he has a ERA over 4.00.

Your Favre avatar offends me.

[TheMojoPin]

If the Cubs can finish this series in Arizona still in first place, I'm very conident they'll end up with a healthy command of the dvision ater the next 40 games:

At the end of this 3-game series with the Dimondbacks, the Cubs finish a 44 game stretch where they:

-Played 29 road games and only 15 home games
-Missed their All Star LF and main HR producer almost the entire time
-Missed their ace for 2 starts
-Missed their closer for 10 games while their formerly lights out setup man has had some mighty struggles
-Played 6 series (5 on the road) against teams that currently occupy playoff sports

The Cubs' record in that span? 22-19 (with 3 to go).

After this, they play 26 of the next 39 at home, and only 2 series (both at home) against teams that currently occupy playoff spots, and they'll have their All Star LF, closer and ace back for most if not all of that time plus Harden added to the mix.

[TheMojoPin]

Fuckin' PONDEROUS.

Harden has pitched 2 starts, 20 k's, 1 run given up...and he's 0-1. I swear to Christ, the next time I hear someone try and use pitching W-L stats for ANYTHING in terms of evaluating a pitcher, I'm feeding their balls to hippo.

Soriano needsa to be back and hitting ASAP and Aramis needs to bust out of his funk. Not having those two threats is damn near crippling this offense at times with Lee showing little power for over a month. And Hendry better be be looking for a little help in the bat department. Nothing drastic, but they could definitely use more pop off the bench.

[epo]

What? The Cubs had to play road games after a front-loaded schedule?

2 out bitches!

[TheMojoPin]

Cubs starters since the break:

8 IP 1 ER
6.1 IP 4 ER
8 IP 0 ER
7 IP 1 ER

Total 29.1 IP 6 ER = 1.84 ERA

Cubs record: 1-3

Ridiculous.

I'd like to see Aramis and Lee each sit a game in this series. Play Hoffpauir at 1st and then DeRosa at 3rd with Ward in LF or RF.

[TheMojoPin]

What? The Cubs had to play road games after a front-loaded schedule?

Funny, they went 1-3 to start the first part of the season, too.

How did that turn out?

And 26 of their next 39 at home after this series.

Hmm.

[epo]

Funny, they went 1-3 to start the first part of the season, too.

How did that turn out?

And 26 of their next 39 at home after this series.

Hmm.

I do seem to recall that the Cubs are 2-4 (all games at home) against a certain NL Central team.

Next Monday can't get here fast enough, with the rotation lining up Sabathia, Sheets and Parra for the first 3 games of the series.

[TheMojoPin]

Well, if the road woes keep up, expect to sweep the Cubs. I was just looking at their road splits for their best hitters and they're embarassing at best. Their overall OPS has been drastically slipping since May, so I've already steeled myself for a collapse.

[TheMojoPin]

I do seem to recall that the Cubs are 2-4 (all games at home) against a certain NL Central team.

It's annoying the Cardinals an Brewers played all of their games against the Cubs thus far at the very beginning (except the recent Cards series) when they sucked, then got skipped for the two months the Cubs were amazing, and now play the rest of the games when the Cubs are back to being their usual shitty selves.

Still, only the Cards making the playoffs over the Cubs would actually hurt. The Brewers going would be frustrating, but I just can't get worked up over this forced non-rivalry. It's like if I got pissed the Dodgers or something made it instead.

[Ritalin]

Mojo, I think Mount Pinella is rumbling and ready for a burst soon. I have to believe that's the one reason why this won't be a typical Cubs year.

Plus, getting Soriano back will be huge. If he comes back hot, we'll be fine.

[TheMojoPin]

Mojo, I think Mount Pinella is rumbling and ready for a burst soon. I have to believe that's the one reason why this won't be a typical Cubs year.

Plus, getting Soriano back will be huge. If he comes back hot, we'll be fine.

Soriano will help, but he's inherrently a streaky player. Soto is also showing to be quite streaky. Aramis has basically been in a wretched slump for a month now and Lee, while hitting well, has little to no power in that same timeframe. Fukudome has almost totally bust for the time being...these are all major factors that do not bode well at all for the final run.

I want them to win...but I'll believe it when it happens.

[epo]

Still, only the Cards making the playoffs over the Cubs would actually hurt. The Brewers going would be frustrating, but I just can't get worked up over this forced non-rivalry. It's like if I got pissed the Dodgers or something made it instead.

Honestly the only reason that Brewers/Cubs feels like a rivalry here is that Cubs fans act like such incredible asshats at Miller Park that they force us to hate the Cubs. The next time I see a "Wrigley North" sign in the hands of a Cubs fan, I may need to punch them in the face.

[Knowledged_one]

Hard to believe that Harden would be the solution look at how hes done with the Cubs

0 wins
1 Loss

That projects to what over the rest of the season

0 wins
7 losses

Good deal for the cubs

[jauble]

Hard to believe that Harden would be the solution look at how hes done with the Cubs

0 wins
1 Loss

That projects to what over the rest of the season

0 wins
7 losses

Good deal for the cubs

Here comes an angry mojo response

[TheMojoPin]

Honestly the only reason that Brewers/Cubs feels like a rivalry here is that Cubs fans act like such incredible asshats at Miller Park that they force us to hate the Cubs. The next time I see a "Wrigley North" sign in the hands of a Cubs fan, I may need to punch them in the face.

I hope they keep it up because it's just indicative of the rumored grumbling that outside of the Cubs and (sometimes) Cards coming to town the Brewers aren't getting the money push like they got with the rivals in the AL. It's a longshot, but any scenario that flipflops the Brewers with the Royals is OK by me.

[TheMojoPin]

Here comes an angry mojo response

No. He's just tyring to bait me. No real baseball fan is that dumb, and KO is a real baseball fan.

[Knowledged_one]

No. He's just tyring to bait me. No real baseball fan is that dumb, and KO is a real baseball fan.

I knew you would know i was just funnin yah

And yeah W-L does not mean a lot at all, i think in my opinion that WHIP is one of the best indicators of a pitcher along with K/BB ratio

[epo]

I hope they keep it up because it's just indicative of the rumored grumbling that outside of the Cubs and (sometimes) Cards coming to town the Brewers aren't getting the money push like they got with the rivals in the AL. It's a longshot, but any scenario that flipflops the Brewers with the Royals is OK by me.

That's just a stupid rumor. The Brewers attendance has raised since moving to the NL, which has been accelerated by the new ballpark. Link here. (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/teams/brewatte.shtml) This season they are pace to draw about 3 million.

You dream of the Royals, but it ain't gonna happen.

[Kevin]

No. He's just tyring to bait me. No real baseball fan is that dumb, and KO is a real baseball fan.

BD... OHHHHHHHH, Real baseball fan.. My mistake..

[TheMojoPin]

That's just a stupid rumor. The Brewers attendance has raised since moving to the NL, which has been accelerated by the new ballpark. Link here. (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/teams/brewatte.shtml) This season they are pace to draw about 3 million.

You dream of the Royals, but it ain't gonna happen.

Oh well. Fake rivalry goes on.

[TheMojoPin]

Speaking of BD-OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH, SORRY!...witness this contrast in baseball analysis:

Stevie(milwaukee): How big of a deal is run differential in reality? Didn't the Diamondbacks make the playoffs last year with a poor one?

SportsNation Rob Neyer: Sure, and that'll happen every decade or so. Don't count on it happening again this year.

Blueberry Johnson (NY): Joe, Texas has been outscored by 33 runs this year. Yet, they are still have a .520 winning percentage. How are they doing it?

SportsNation Joe Morgan: I think run differential is just a stat that does not mean a lot. Look at what the Dbacks did last year. Run differential is a deceptive stat.

Joe Morgan never lets me down. The man is modern baseball retarded.

[epo]

Oh well. Fake rivalry goes on.

Fine. Get your people out of my stadium.

[IMSlacker]

Fine. Get your people out of my stadium.

You need the Cubs fans so you can pay Sheets and Sabathia. Oh the irony!

[epo]

You need the Cubs fans so you can pay Sheets and Sabathia. Oh the irony!

Considering the fact that they are selling out Wednesday afternoon day games, no we don't.

Get out.

[TheMojoPin]

Considering the fact that they are selling out Wednesday afternoon day games, no we don't.

Get out.

Can't escape the (Real) Nation.

[Knowledged_one]

Speaking of BD-OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH, SORRY!...witness this contrast in baseball analysis:





Joe Morgan never lets me down. The man is modern baseball retarded.

Who would win in a retarded comment off

Joe Morgan or Emmit "Sharp as a feather" Smith

[TheMojoPin]

Who would win in a retarded comment off

Joe Morgan or Emmit "Sharp as a feather" Smith

Oh man.

We'd all lose.

[IMSlacker]

Considering the fact that they are selling out Wednesday afternoon day games, no we don't.

Get out.

OK, but you're gonna miss us when you're back in the AL and the White Sox fans start showing up.

http://www.cbc.ca/gfx/topstory/sports/kcfanattack020920.jpg

[ladyface]

Smith would win. He's worse than terrible (and upon winning, he could spike Joe Morgan into the ground).

[scottinnj]

I could be watching this live (I get WGN on Directv) but I'm too busy jerking off to the top of the ninth highlights on ESPN right now.


Go Cubs!

[TheMojoPin]

The Cubs' hitting is absolutely wretched right now...and the bullpen is only getting worse.

The collapse is in full effect.

I smell another 2004...decent team with a respectable record that doesn't make the playoffs.

[burrben]

Who would win in a retarded comment off

Joe Morgan or Emmit "Sharp as a feather" Smith

morgan. third greatest red ever

[epo]

Maybe Lou can motivate them with a speech?

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1 game out bitches!

[TheMojoPin]

Bitches?

Echo-echo-echo...

[Ritalin]

Considering the fact that they are selling out Wednesday afternoon day games, no we don't.

Get out.

Well, once the cow's are milked what else is there to do?

[TheMojoPin]

...

What's going on?

What's happening?

I'm confused.

This seems wrong.

Baby steps, I guess. Aramis and Soto bust out of their hitless stretches, Lee finally homers again, Fukudome walked 3 times and last night and tonight the Cubs are finally walking again in general, Soriano hitless thus far but still drove in an RBI (strike that, he just hit a double). Hopefully they wake up for the next 4 games against the Marlins back at Wrigley. The Cubs are, I believe, winless against the Marlins since the Series That Never Happened, so i would be nice to reverse that trend, especially with Zambrano and Harden pitching and especially with the series at the Brewers after that and their aces going.

If anything, hopefully the Cardinals' slide has begun.

[ChrisTheCop]

NICE 8th inning there!!! woooo!!!

(I have Lilly on fantasy)

[TheMojoPin]

PS - DFA Bob Howry. It's the last year of his contract and outside of May he's been a human gas can.

[IMSlacker]

PS - DFA Bob Howry. It's the last year of his contract and outside of May he's been a human gas can.

Yeah. I'm glad I went to bed after the top of the 8th last night.

[Ritalin]

They're down to the last three in the bid to sell the Chicago Cubs.

The name that jumps off the page at me: Mark Cuban. They sent John Canning - Bud Selig's homer pick - packing. In the same story, I learned that when John Henry and his group bought the Red Sox they weren't the highest bidders, but Bud Selig and the owners forced the former Red Sox owners to sell to Henry.

Bud is fucking high as a kite if he thinks he's going to fuck with Sam Zell like that. Do you think MLB owners will try to keep Cuban from owning the team?

[IMSlacker]

I swear, I think it takes a year off of my life every time Carlos Marmol pitches.

[TheMojoPin]

Bud is fucking high as a kite if he thinks he's going to fuck with Sam Zell like that. Do you think MLB owners will try to keep Cuban from owning the team?

If Cuban is the highest bidder and Zell is determined to sell to the hghest bidder, in short...no.

I'm holding out from gettingb too excited until the deal is done, but if Mark Cuban buys this team, I'll consider the season a success even if the team flames out.

Other (retarded) Cubs news...Jeff Samardzija has been called up for relief.

...

WHY?!?

He's been good as a starter in limited AAA, but he stunk in AA and it's not like hi good starts have been amazing. He's basically a high school pitcher with his lack of college pitching. Unless he's been pitching like a young Prior, and he hasn't, you don't bring a guy like that up when the season is this tight and the bullpen is really struggling AND you have excellent releiver Michael Wuertz inexplicably rotting in the minors again because Lou doesn't like him. There's at least two other guys in Ascanio and Cruz that project much better than Jeff right now to come up for bullpen help. Unless Jeff is coming up to WR for the Bears, this is beyond dumb. The only bullpen bright spot i that Angel Guzman will likely be up in a few weeks to join it.

[TheMojoPin]

Oh yeah, here's a video from the insane brawl involving the Cubs' minor leage team in Peoria today. (http://www.daytondailynews.com/m/content/oh/media/video/news/index.html?bcpid=1459469120&bclid=1459331347&bctid=1688297742)

Peoria Chiefs' pitcher Julio Castillo actually hurls a ball at someone in or near the Dragons' dugout and he was later arrested on assault charges. Nuts.

Fortunately, Castillo sucks...but not enough that he didn't miss the dugout or whoever and hit someone in the stands and they went to the hospital.

[TheMojoPin]

Cuban supposedly the top bidder for the Cubs at $1.3 billion. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3503599)

It really doesn't make any sense for the other owners to vote no to a guy like him getting the team. They wiould face one of the nastiest legal battles in recent history. If it turns out Cuban was the highest bidder, had secured all the financing he needed, and presented a realistic bid, but MLB shoots him down, the mess of lawsuits will be unholy. Zell has an army of lawyers. The Tribune's shareholders will have a heck of a case. Cuban, his minority buyers, and financiers also will have their pick of causes of action. If Congress gets involved, the backlash will be terrible for MLB.

MLB might have an old boys club, but they would get shredded in court if that happens. It could cost them billions of dollars.

In short, voting for Cuban would make them more money. Voting against him would make them lose money. It's a no-brainer.

[Kevin]

Cuban supposedly the top bidder for the Cubs at $1.3 billion. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3503599)

It really doesn't make any sense for the other owners to vote no to a guy like him getting the team. They wiould face one of the nastiest legal battles in recent history. If it turns out Cuban was the highest bidder, had secured all the financing he needed, and presented a realistic bid, but MLB shoots him down, the mess of lawsuits will be unholy. Zell has an army of lawyers. The Tribune's shareholders will have a heck of a case. Cuban, his minority buyers, and financiers also will have their pick of causes of action. If Congress gets involved, the backlash will be terrible for MLB.

MLB might have an old boys club, but they would get shredded in court if that happens. It could cost them billions of dollars.

In short, voting for Cuban would make them more money. Voting against him would make them lose money. It's a no-brainer.

Cablevision and Jim Dolen were the highest bidder for the Redsox, by quite a bit.. MLB still gave it to Henry and Warner.. So i don't think it will matter.

[TheMojoPin]

Cablevision and Jim Dolen were the highest bidder for the Redsox, by quite a bit.. MLB still gave it to Henry and Warner.. So i don't think it will matter.

It matters huge because of Zell. Zell would kick baseball's ass and the owners would collectively lose billions. Why would they willingly choose to lose a lot of money when picking Cuban is basically guartentee for all of baseball to make more money? Zell being a brutal cutthroat prck that'll drain them on top of him already knowing and being buddies with most of the owners is what makes the difference here. He's their friend...but he wants top dollar.

[Ritalin]

Cablevision and Jim Dolen were the highest bidder for the Redsox, by quite a bit.. MLB still gave it to Henry and Warner.. So i don't think it will matter.

It matters huge because of Zell. Zell would kick baseball's ass and the owners would collectively lose billions. Why would they willingly choose to lose a lot of money when picking Cuban is basically guartentee for all of baseball to make more money? Zell being a brutal cutthroat prck that'll drain them on top of him already knowing and being buddies with most of the owners is what makes the difference here. He's their friend...but he wants top dollar.

I think that's why they already rejected Canning's bid, because Canning was Selig's boy.

[IMSlacker]

OK, who is this Josh Johnson character who is mowing down my Cubs?

edit: Nevermind. Go Russ Johnson!

[epo]

Alright, I've got a question.

Growing up in Wisconsin, Pat Hughes was Bob Uecker's partner in the radio booth. I grew up listening to Pat and think he's a very solid broadcaster. However, how in the world does he sit next to Ron Santo? I was listening to Santo and had to mute it...goddamn is he bad.

Do people in Chicagoland think that Ron Santo is good or listenable?

[ozzie]

Someone give Quade a stop sign for fucksake. Soriano never had a chance.

[TheMojoPin]

Alright, I've got a question.

Growing up in Wisconsin, Pat Hughes was Bob Uecker's partner in the radio booth. I grew up listening to Pat and think he's a very solid broadcaster. However, how in the world does he sit next to Ron Santo? I was listening to Santo and had to mute it...goddamn is he bad.

Do people in Chicagoland think that Ron Santo is good or listenable?

Santo is what he is. Nobody thinks he's good...we just enjoy the trainwreck. If he wasn't anchored by someone as great as Hughes, he'd be unbearable, but with Pat there he's basically just an emotional fan in the booth who also happened to be one of the best 3rd basemen ever.

[IMSlacker]

Alright, I've got a question.

Growing up in Wisconsin, Pat Hughes was Bob Uecker's partner in the radio booth. I grew up listening to Pat and think he's a very solid broadcaster. However, how in the world does he sit next to Ron Santo? I was listening to Santo and had to mute it...goddamn is he bad.

Do people in Chicagoland think that Ron Santo is good or listenable?

Ron Santo is a terrible broadcaster. But, he's beloved and he has no legs, so he gets a pass. It's also funny when he gets excited and just starts screaming incoherently.

[TheMojoPin]

Someone give Quade a stop sign for fucksake. Soriano never had a chance.

No kidding. That was "Wavin' Wendell" all over again. Even at his fastest Soriano would have been out.

[IMSlacker]

Wow, it's already "Samardzija time". The bullpen is really in trouble.

[IMSlacker]

I officially hate Bob Howry.

[TheMojoPin]

I officially hate Bob Howry.

Yeah, he needs to be released or put on the DL right now. I hope Hendry is looking around for some outside bullpen help.

The Shark looked pretty decent. He's got some heat.

[Kevin]

Yeah, he needs to be released or put on the DL right now. I hope Hendry is looking around for some outside bullpen help.

The Shark looked pretty decent. He's got some heat.

That one pitch that they showed on BBTN was down right sick, it was 96 and moved a good 2 3 inches, right into the inside corner, filthy.

You see a Joba mania thing with him and Cub fans?

[TheMojoPin]

That one pitch that they showed on BBTN was down right sick, it was 96 and moved a good 2 3 inches, right into the inside corner, filthy.

You see a Joba mania thing with him and Cub fans?

It would be nice if it panned out even anywhere near what Joba is. Shark definitely has the raw stuff in terms of pitching array, movement and speed when he's on...it's just like I said before, he's basically a high school draftee with his experience and history. Give him a little taste right now and then ideally send him back down ASA and work with the idea he'll be in the minors all of next year and target 2010 to bring him up. The one thing the Cubs' horrid farm system has been good at for the better part of two decades now is producing quality pitching, so here's hoping he's one of the ones that pans out.

[Kevin]

It would be nice if it panned out even anywhere near what Joba is. Shark definitely has the raw stuff in terms of pitching array, movement and speed when he's on...it's just like I said before, he's basically a high school draftee with his experience and history. Give him a little taste right now and then ideally send him back down ASA and work with the idea he'll be in the minors all of next year and target 2010 to bring him up.

Yea, the most impressive thing i see about Joba is, he gets stronger as the game goes on. His stuff is better 6 7th than it is in the 1st 2nd. Once all the chains are taken off, i think he is going to be an absolute stud.

To go into Fenway at 22, still not really used to SP, and shut down the Redsox, outduling Beckett, was impressive.

[Ritalin]

Yea, the most impressive thing i see about Joba is, he gets stronger as the game goes on. His stuff is better 6 7th than it is in the 1st 2nd. Once all the chains are taken off, i think he is going to be an absolute stud.

To go into Fenway at 22, still not really used to SP, and shut down the Redsox, outduling Beckett, was impressive.

I hate to agree with you, but I do. The Joba mania here in New York is insufferable - especially if you already despise the Yankees - but he looked great last night.

[TheMojoPin]

For anyone with WGN, the Cubs game is on and the 2nd inning just started with Harden on the mound.

He's already walked 2, but all the outs have been strikeouts.

[epo]

For anyone with WGN, the Cubs game is on and the 2nd inning just started with Harden on the mound.

He's already walked 2, but all the outs have been strikeouts.

Is that Len Kasper working for the Cubs announce team?

[TheMojoPin]

Is that Len Kasper working for the Cubs announce team?

Yup. He and Bob Brenly have been doing it for a few years now. I've really enjoyed them.

[ozzie]

It would be nice if it panned out even anywhere near what Joba is. Shark definitely has the raw stuff in terms of pitching array, movement and speed when he's on...it's just like I said before, he's basically a high school draftee with his experience and history. Give him a little taste right now and then ideally send him back down ASA and work with the idea he'll be in the minors all of next year and target 2010 to bring him up. The one thing the Cubs' horrid farm system has been good at for the better part of two decades now is producing quality pitching, so here's hoping he's one of the ones that pans out.

I hear what you're saying. What are the chances they keep Samardzija up after Wood returns?

[jauble]

Lou is pissed.

[TheMojoPin]

I hear what you're saying. What are the chances they keep Samardzija up after Wood returns?

Probably not too good with Angel Guzman waiting in the wings.

[TheMojoPin]

Lou is pissed.

DeRosa was out, mainly for sliding into 1st like a moron.

[King Hippos Bandaid]

soooooooo, I assume Jeremy Hermida is off the Christmas Card list

[TheMojoPin]

Now the Cubs can't score at home.

Just give this shit to the Brewers and end it.

[cougarjake13]

Now the Cubs can't score at home.

Just give this shit to the Brewers and end it.

a lil early for that

[epo]

Play 18 innings! I want this bullpen worn out for next week.

[TheMojoPin]

a lil early for that

History has my side.

[TheMojoPin]

Is that Len Kasper working for the Cubs announce team?

The Brewers are at least winning that series even with the Cubs' bullpen at full strength.

[TheMojoPin]

The Marlins will get the lead this inning just so the Cubs' "heart of the lineup" can go down like chumps just like they did yesterday in the bottom of the inning.

[Tenbatsuzen]

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[IMSlacker]

:wub: Reed Johnson!

[Ritalin]

Watching the game on this MLB.com gameday...pretty nice. Pitch by pitch with location. Top of the 7th, bases just loaded, DLee steps to the plate.

He's going to kill me this year. It looks like he grounded into a DP, but bad fielding let him off the hook.

[TheMojoPin]

Watching the game on this MLB.com gameday...pretty nice. Pitch by pitch with location. Top of the 7th, bases just loaded, DLee steps to the plate.

He's going to kill me this year. It looks like he grounded into a DP, but bad fielding let him off the hook.

He's pretty damn close to being on a record setting pace for DP's this year. I believe the record is 36, and he's targeting the low 30's. Thank God he came through with a couple of other RBI hits.

It's awesome to see Sori starting another hot tear, but either Aramis or Soto needs to heat up, fast. Both basically being turds up there is not good.

[ChrisTheCop]

wtf?
WTF???
Between him and DiceK, my fantasy league took a beating today.

[IMSlacker]

wtf?
WTF???
Between him and DiceK, my fantasy league took a beating today.

Lilly was in line for the win, Bob Howry gave up the tying run. Welcome to the I hate Bob Howry club.

[Ritalin]

Lilly was in line for the win, Bob Howry gave up the tying run. Welcome to the I hate Bob Howry club.

Sir, I must repeat: Your avatar offends me.

[IMSlacker]

Sir, I must repeat: Your avatar offends me.

It's staying until Favre in a Bears uniform becomes a reality.

You're on your way out, Neckbeard!!

[TheMojoPin]

Bottom of the 2nd on WGN for anyone that wants to watch the clash of the NL Central titans.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u310/nucubs/zfontenotpregame2.gif

[cougarjake13]

Bottom of the 2nd on WGN for anyone that wants to watch the clash of the NL Central titans.

http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u310/nucubs/zfontenotpregame2.gif



makes me wish i was a cubs or white sox fan

then i could see every game

[TheMojoPin]

makes me wish i was a cubs or white sox fan

then i could see every game

Ah, those good ol' days of everything on WGN are gone.

Half the games are on WGN, half on Comcast.

What are the Mets on?

[cougarjake13]

Ah, those good ol' days of everything on WGN are gone.

Half the games are on WGN, half on Comcast.

What are the Mets on?

in ny sny i think

down here i only get to see them if the play the marlins like tonight, the cubs on wgn, or on espn

i used to get them on tbs when they played atlanta but theyre not braves exclusive anymore

[IMSlacker]

makes me wish i was a cubs or white sox fan

then i could see every game

WGN doesn't carry nearly as many games as they used to. I've been getting the Extra Innings package for the last five years or so.

[cougarjake13]

WGN doesn't carry nearly as many games as they used to. I've been getting the Extra Innings package for the last five years or so.

yeh i noticed that but still my only alternative was rays, marlins or braves games

[IMSlacker]

OK, now Ramirez and Soto are hitting again too. The offense is starting to look like they did back in May & June. Hope this keeps up.

[TheMojoPin]

As that this is only halfway through this series, I'm most happy that tonight (hopefully) mean the Cubs leave in 1st place by themselves (for now) no matter what.

LET'S GO BRAVES!

[midwestjeff]

LET'S GO BRAVES!

Sorry, Cards are up 8-2 in the ninth.

[TheMojoPin]

NEVERMIND BRAVES.

They'll win tomorrow against Zombie Carpenter.

That said, I have absolutely zero concern about the Cardinals making the playoffs at all.

[TheMojoPin]

Lou, go fuck yourself.

Zambrano pitches 7 full shutout innings for 102 pitches and you send him back out in the 8th. Why not give Eyre some work since he hasn't pitched since coming off the DL? Why not pitch Marshall to keep him fresh?

[IMSlacker]

Yeah, I probably wouldn't have a problem with Z pitching the 8th if he hadn't already spent time on the DL this year.

[IMSlacker]

Samardzija needs a hair cut. He's reminding me a little too much of Mitch Williams.

[TheMojoPin]

I wanted to post this clip of Z's 9 k's last night just so everyone can see his pitch at about the 1:11 mark against Weeks. It's criminally filthy:

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[Knowledged_one]

I wanted to post this clip of Z's 9 k's last night just so everyone can see his pitch at about the 1:11 mark against Weeks. It's criminally filthy:

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strikeouts arent as good of an indicator of how good a pitcher is like wins and losses

[TheMojoPin]

strikeouts arent as good of an indicator of how good a pitcher is like wins and losses

*PUNCH*

[jauble]

What the fuck. TBS blacks out and now I get ESPN news instead of the baseball game. fucking comcast cunts.

[TheMojoPin]

Blackout rules are insane.

[jauble]

Blackout rules are insane.

I am in fucking Indianapolis, I should not be effected by this.