2009 Repeating NL Central Division Champs Chicago Cubs Thread of Destiny

[midwestjeff]

http://www.crosstudy.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/checkmate.104185919_std.jpg


you win this battle midwestjeff

Phew. That was close. I thought you were picking the black chess pieces. They're my favorite.

[IMSlacker]

11-1 now. The comeback has begun.

[midwestjeff]

Just avoided the ten-run rule.

Well played, Cubbies.

[ozzie]

Just avoided the ten-run rule.

Well played, Cubbies.

Back to ten.

Seriously, end this game now.

[midwestjeff]

Back to ten.

Seriously, end this game now.

You sure about that?

Do I need to remind you about the Cards' bullpen?

[ozzie]

You sure about that?

Do I need to remind you about the Cards' bullpen?

I just looked at the lineup... Hoffpauir, Cedeno, Ward, McGehee, Pie, Johnson, Blanco...

Yeah, I'm pretty sure.

[midwestjeff]

I just looked at the lineup... Hoffpauir, Cedeno, Ward, McGehee, Pie, Johnson, Blanco...

Yeah, I'm pretty sure.

Super post.

[TheMojoPin]

I really appreciate the Cardinals' fine efforts to ensure that I will be able to see the Cubs clinch live and in person on Saturday. Very noble gesture, gentlemen.

Seriously, is Lou retarded? Zambrano apparently goes back to Venezuela because his granny died ad doesn't get back until late Thursday night, and they don't push his start back at least a day? Good call, dingus.

[cougarjake13]

I really appreciate the Cardinals' fine efforts to ensure that I will be able to see the Cubs clinch live and in person on Saturday. Very noble gesture, gentlemen.

Seriously, is Lou retarded? Zambrano apparently goes back to Venezuela because his granny died ad doesn't get back until late Thursday night, and they don't push his start back at least a day? Good call, dingus.



well hopefully thats the reason for his bad outing and not some arm troubles

[IMSlacker]

Ooph. Brian Barton is not looking good out there.

[jauble]

The Fox broadcaster just said wizardry.

[IMSlacker]

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[cougarjake13]

congrats cubbies !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[TheMojoPin]

Got to go to the game...about to head back out to celebrate.

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[cougarjake13]

amazingly its the first time since 1906,1907,1908 that they've won back to back division titles


i know they had some tough times but damn

[Philly Franko]

will rons CUB,s Win It All/ The Division? Mollys Cupcakes for all if they do ...send bill to Fezzie...

[Bossanova]

amazingly its the first time since 1906,1907,1908 that they've won back to back division titles


i know they had some tough times but damn

Um, the Mets have never won consecutive division titles,so don't sound so amazed.

[cougarjake13]

Um, the Mets have never won consecutive division titles,so don't sound so amazed.

yeh but the cubs have been around for 80 plus more years than the mets

and there were a few years where the mets won 90 plus games but not the division


the cubs only did this 4 times in more time around as a franchise

[TheMojoPin]

Ron Santo joygasm. (http://home.comcast.net/~bcvm22/cubs/9202008.mp3) If he doesn't get voted into the HOF this time, someone will pay.

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[Jughead]

I had to work then missed the end.... Thank you so much for the pictures....MOJO.... Grats to you and your wisdom..JUG

[scottinnj]

Congrats Mojo on clinching the NL Central. I got the message on my Verizon ESPN MVP-sorry I didn't chime in sooner, I was at my boys' football games.

Now sweep the Mets next week. It'll be a happy birthday present to me!

[K.C.]

Congrats Mojo on clinching the NL Central. I got the message on my Verizon ESPN MVP-sorry I didn't chime in sooner, I was at my boys' football games.

Now sweep the Mets next week. It'll be a happy birthday present to me!

I'm curious how they'll play it.

They will probably save Zambrano, Harden, and maybe Dempster, so in that respect, the Mets will be getting Lilly, Marquis, Marshall, and whoever the hell else they can dig up.

For the most part, though, their regulars will be playing. You may see Soriano get one night off, the D-Lee the next night, then Ramirez the next, but I doubt Lou will sit them all.

You have to keep those guys in rhythm.

So the Mets will get a mostly full strength Cubs team, I would think.

[TheMojoPin]

Yeah, I'd be stunned if the regulars get more than 2-3 full extra off days. They'll likely start most of the games after today and then probably come out after 4-5 innings. Dempster, Zambrano and Harden will likely each get another start, but probably nothing past 75 pitches.

[A.J.]

Congrats Cubs fans. I pray I'm not a jinx to you guys, but I'm beginning to believe in some destiny here.

[KingGeno]

Congrats Cubbies!

[TheMojoPin]

http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v317/167/41/14824290/n14824290_40106531_303.jpg
Woody getting ready for his final pitch.

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The out.

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WOOO!

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[Ritalin]

You had some nice seats there, Mojo.

Let's take 2 of 3 from the Mets just because.

[Knowledged_one]

I read something today that said that the cubs may leave fukudome may be left off of the playoff roster, that wont happen will it?

[TheMojoPin]

It would be stupid if they did since they need him for his defense.

[King Hippos Bandaid]

any bench players with a good enough pop I can pick up for this week

I figure they will sub in the later innings and you know the Mets bullpen

[scottinnj]

I just got home and all I have to say is I want to kiss Jason Marquis on the mouth.

And that I love XM's stellar MLB coverage. To be going from Mantua to Manahawkin and being able to switch between the Phils/Braves and the Mets/Cubs games-we are at the peak of human civilization.

[TheMojoPin]

Home field advantage clinched for the playoffs! The only thing left over the next 6 games? Going for 100 wins!

Marshall pitching tomorrow and Harden now going Thursday, Zambrano still on Wedensday.

[DiabloSammich]

Congrats Cub fans. Now keep fucking up the Mets.

[K.C.]

Congrats Cub fans. Now keep fucking up the Mets.

Actually, after that pathetic display tonight, I'd bench everyone and re-sign Mark Prior to make three spot starts over the next three days.

The Cubs should be salivating at the prospect of playing the Mets.


I don't really care who the Phils play as long as they win the division, although for hilarity purposes, the Mets failing out would be fantastic.

[albo60s]

Congrats Cub fans. Now keep fucking up the Mets.


here here!!!
Cubs fan till Thursday.

albo

[IMSlacker]

Gaudin isn't making much of a case for inclusion on the post-season roster.

[TheMojoPin]

Gaudin isn't making much of a case for inclusion on the post-season roster.

Dude just got back from the DL. Use him 2-3 more times before the end and see if he can straighten it out. He's still better than Howry at this point.

[TheMojoPin]

Uh-oh...the jinx even bigger than Hippo:

http://i.cdn.turner.com/sivault/si_online/covers/images/2008/0929_large.jpg

Just this year alone, Soriano was on the cover and then missed a month due to a leg injury and almost two months after a pitch broke his hand. Then Fukudome was on the cover after his dominant first two months and then proceeded to fall apart. You can also look back on the infamous "The Cubs will win the WS" cover from '04 and the cover of Prior and Wood shortly before their slew of DL stinits kiked into overdrive. SI has not been good to the Cubs in recent years. Aramis better be careful.

[jauble]

ESPN just made a comment about how healthy the cubs starting rotation is...wtf?

[cougarjake13]

ESPN just made a comment about how healthy the cubs starting rotation is...wtf?

oh fuck

[jauble]

Having Bill Murray in studio makes this feel almost like a WGN broadcast. I love it when celebs actually know what they are talking about.

[K.C.]

Thank you, Cubbies.

[TheMojoPin]

I was a little worried when Aramis was trotting around the bases with the SI cover coming out. I was expecting another back cat to run out and trip him up.

[jauble]

I was a little worried when Aramis was trotting around the bases with the SI cover coming out. I was expecting another back cat to run out and trip him up.

Hopefully the derosa thing is nothing...he has been mr everywhere this season.

[TheMojoPin]

Hopefully the derosa thing is nothing...he has been mr everywhere this season.

No kidding, especially with Fuku's troubles. Hell, look at him tonight with the HR and the 2-RBI double. Definitely gets my vote for team MVP.

[epo]

Thank you Cubs.

If I could ask you to win one more, then count the lights during the weekend...would that be too much?

[PigShitIrish]

Here's a question for you Cub fans:

If the game with the Mets tonight gets rained out, and they play it on Monday, does Pinella only play the scrubs knowing that the game will probably have playoff implications for other teams?

[cougarjake13]

Here's a question for you Cub fans:

If the game with the Mets tonight gets rained out, and they play it on Monday, does Pinella only play the scrubs knowing that the game will probably have playoff implications for other teams?



interesting question


i'd like to know what'd he do

obviously if the mets need it i hope he rests the whole fucking starting team

[PD]

so if Ted Lilly's throwing a no-no in the 7th, does he stay in?

[K.C.]

Why can't I get a 'repeat NL East Division Champs' on my playoff thread???

[King Hippos Bandaid]

tough series

The fighting Torres have been playing good baseball


I wont make any predictions, I know I will be banned if the Cubs lose

[DiabloSammich]

Uh-oh...the jinx even bigger than Hippo:

http://i.cdn.turner.com/sivault/si_online/covers/images/2008/0929_large.jpg

Just this year alone, Soriano was on the cover and then missed a month due to a leg injury and almost two months after a pitch broke his hand. Then Fukudome was on the cover after his dominant first two months and then proceeded to fall apart. You can also look back on the infamous "The Cubs will win the WS" cover from '04 and the cover of Prior and Wood shortly before their slew of DL stinits kiked into overdrive. SI has not been good to the Cubs in recent years. Aramis better be careful.



Add to that the fact they put the Cowboys on the lower corner, and they get smacked by the Skins.

My condolences Mojo. It's been a good ride.

[K.C.]

Add to that the fact they put the Cowboys on the lower corner, and they get smacked by the Skins.

My condolences Mojo. It's been a good ride.


It was over for Mojo's team karmatically when this little gem came out:

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The Sports Illustrated jinx is just one more over the top.

...not to mention the vague Hippo 'non-jinx.'

"I'm not going to say what I think because I'll get banned if the Cubs lose."

That sounds like an endorsement of Cubs baseball to me!

[TheMojoPin]

tough series

The fighting Torres have been playing good baseball


I wont make any predictions, I know I will be banned if the Cubs lose

The Dodgers are remarkably similar to last year's Cubs team: an OK club that surged in the last month with a REALLY easy schedule. Seriously, the Dodgers had by far the easiest Septemeber schedule of any team in baseball (They played one team the entire month that had over a .500 record). I am in no way saying the Cubs are a lock to win this, but the Dodgers thrived on an incredibly easy final schedule to get where they are, and their home/away splits are huge.

[TheMojoPin]

It was over for Mojo's team karmatically when this little gem came out:

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No way, that song is too vague. It only talks about "someday" and never says that this is the year.

[TheMojoPin]

INSANITY:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a47/madhops_42/GOCUBSGO.jpg

Chicago playoff FRENZY!

[TheMojoPin]

Odd vibe here the last few days...like everyone is holding their breath waiting to see what happens this first game. Last year's sweep is still so fresh that it's like we need to see something, anything to the contrary to really unleash the frenzy.

[A.J.]

Blame Jayson Stark for the possible jinx. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs2008/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=3617228)

[TheMojoPin]

Jayson Stark - DEAD.

[K.C.]

Given everything I've heard in the last few days, with Furcal coming back, and huge concerns about Zambrano, and the fact that the Cubs haven't played meaningful baseball in a while, it would not stun me if the Dodgers won this series.

But the Dodgers HAVE to get Game 1 tonight if they're going to win. If Lowe can pitch a gem, and they can put pressure on Zambrano tomorrow night, when nobody knows what he's going to give them, the Dodgers can steal the series.

That said, I can't bring myself to bet against the Cubs as well as they've played this year.

[TheMojoPin]

Anything is possible, but Furcal being a factor is likely a stretch. He missed 4 months due to back surgery and has been very rusty defensively and offesnsively since returning. Sure, he COULD turn it on...anything can happen in a short series...but I keep seeing so many evaluations talking like it's everyday Furcal out there and not post-major surgery and rehab Furcal.

The first game is critical for any team...the odds are overwhelmingly in the favor of whoever wins the 1st game in a 5-game series.

Cubs' lineup tonight:

Soriano
Fukudome
Lee
Ramirez
Soto
Edmonds
DeRosa
Theriot
Dempster

I wish Lou went for the jugular and would bat DeRosa 2nd, something that should have been done for most of the year. Theriot, as well as he's done, has less power than Juan Pierre, and #2 hitters with at least a little pop are far more useful in today's game.

Here's hoping Fukudome picks it up a bit.

[TheMojoPin]

Fuck me, I'm nervous as hell.

I think I'm gonna barf.

I've had a horrible feeling about this game...I hope I'm wrong.

[K.C.]

Fuck me, I'm nervous as hell.

I think I'm gonna barf.

I've had a horrible feeling about this game...I hope I'm wrong.

That's why I'm glad our game was early.

Felt the same way, but at least I can enjoy the rest of the night now.

[Ritalin]

Why did they boo Dempster for walking Furcal right there? The thing about the post season is there are a lot of people in the park who aren't very good fans.

[Bossanova]

Why did they boo Dempster for walking Furcal right there? The thing about the post season is there are a lot of people in the park who aren't very good fans.

Not just the post season anymore. Ask Johan if the fans are nice when you don't pitch well.

And a grandslam has got to hurt

[K.C.]

Cubbies just look lost. Pitchers are all over the place, batters look out of sync.

The need a huge effort from Zambrano tomorrow or this could turn into a disaster pretty quickly.

[TheMojoPin]

This is done. They MIGHT win Harden's start, but that's likely it. Like I said before, and as you can tell tonight by the quietly apprehensive quiet crowd and the relatively empty streets outside all night, nobody seemed quite ready to buy into this being "the year" until there was a sign that this was going to be different than last year. So far, we've seen nothing to indicate otherwise.

The Cubs bats have been relatively quiet, but that was to be expected against Lowe. This is pretty much all on Dempster...he wasn't trying to put anything in play and his control was the worst it's been all year. I'm baffled as to what happened...he's faced a bunch of lineups that are much better than what the Dodgers have and shut them down, but he shit the bed big time tonight.

[jauble]

So far worst wednsday on record this year for me...at least have enough fuel tomorrow to get to the wreck that my work has become.


















fuck...

[TheMojoPin]

Eh...I went into this tentatively until they could win a game in the playoffs, and even then not until they get past the first series.

Whatever happens happens.

[Ritalin]

Look, it's only one game. Big Z comes out dealing tomorrow and it's a brand new series. We still have pitching depth, even with this Dempster Debacle.

[IMSlacker]

Fuck.

[TheMojoPin]

Look, it's only one game. Big Z comes out dealing tomorrow and it's a brand new series. We still have pitching depth, even with this Dempster Debacle.

It's not just one game. It's a very short series where teams that win the first game end up winning the rest of the series around 80% of the time.

[cougarjake13]

somewhere snoogans is smiling

[K.C.]

It's not just one game. It's a very short series where teams that win the first game end up winning the rest of the series around 80% of the time.

This was the game where the Cubs should have had the edge. As good as Lowe's been the last month or so, Dempster's suppose to be close to unbeatable at home.

Now, you really have to give the pitching edge to Billingsley over Zambrano for tomorrow.

Zambrano's going to have to give one of his best performances tomorrow to win, so the Cubs really are in trouble at this point.

That said, if there's nothing wrong with him, he's more than capable of doing that.

[Ritalin]

Look, it's only one game. Big Z comes out dealing tomorrow and it's a brand new series. We still have pitching depth, even with this Dempster Debacle.

It's not just one game. It's a very short series where teams that win the first game end up winning the rest of the series around 80% of the time.

That just doesn't make sense statistically. If the Cubs win tomorrow, they go to LA tied 1-1. The odds are highest that teams will split any 2 games, right? So go to LA and split, then come back to Wrigley and wrap it up.

Now, if they lose tomorrow, we're fucked.

[TheMojoPin]

This was the game where the Cubs should have had the edge. As good as Lowe's been the last month or so, Dempster's suppose to be close to unbeatable at home.

Now, you really have to give the pitching edge to Billingsley over Zambrano for tomorrow.

Zambrano's going to have to give one of his best performances tomorrow to win, so the Cubs really are in trouble at this point.

That said, if there's nothing wrong with him, he's more than capable of doing that.

I don't see why Zambrano has to give "one of his best" tomorrow. He needs to step up, but his best is complete dominance. While that would be nice, it's not necessary to beat the Dodgers or Billingsley, who the Cubs beat up on twice this season.

Tonight was, ideally, a pitchers duel. There was really no way to predict that Dempster would do this given he's only given up 6 HR's at home all year and averaged less tha 2 walks a start. The score ended up being inflated by the Cubs tossing out some gimme relief after the game fell apart. It was also always expected for Lowe to keep the score tight as long as he was in the game. DeRosa's HR should have been enough for Dempster to keep them in the game for 6-7 innings. He failed. Completely. You can't really plan for such a total failure.

Going to LA actually also works in the Cubs' favor due to the depth of their rotation and the Dodger's stadium being a pitchers' park. If they can win tomorrow, they have a slim chance, especially when Harden starts.

[A.J.]

somewhere snoogans is smiling

Yeah, I think he giggled like a little girl when Manny jacked that solo shot.

[TheMojoPin]

Yeah, I think he giggled like a little girl when Manny jacked that solo shot.

Sometimes you really just have to tip your cap. Manny basically willed that out...it's not like Marshall threw a bad pitch or anything. Hell, it was about 2 inches off the gorund when Manny snagged it. It was an awesome home run.

[Ritalin]

Sometimes you really just have to tip your cap. Manny basically willed that out...it's not like Marshall threw a bad pitch or anything. Hell, it was about 2 inches off the gorund when Manny snagged it. It was an awesome home run.

Yeah, that home run was sick. I thought he got fooled and when it left the bat I was waiting for Edmonds to settle under it. I literally said holy shit as it went out.

That was crazy.

[jauble]

fucking cunts

[jauble]

TBS sports brodcasting sounds like a high school fuck up.

[TheMojoPin]

Ah well. That's baseball in the short series. Everything goes out the window.

[IMSlacker]

Balls!

I blame the entire media for conspiring to jinx the Cubs.

[Ritalin]

Fuckety fuck fuck.

[TheMojoPin]

It really is absurd just how badly they've tanked it in the playoffs this year and the last:

2007:
Team - .194 .307 .255 .562
Opponents - .266 .358 .532 .890
Lee - 333 .385 .333
Ramirez - .000 .077 .000
Soto - .167 .375 .667
Soriano - .143 .200 .143
Theriot - .250 .308 .250
DeRosa - .333 .500 .333

Team - 5.76 ERA, 25 H, 13 BB, 16 ER, 35 K
Opponent - 2.00 ERA, 19 H, 14 BB, 6 ER, 27 K

2008:
Team - .246 .288 .362 .650
Opponents - .270 .372 .486 .858
Lee - .429 .500 .571
Ramirez - .250 .250 .375
Soto - .143 .250 .143
Soriano - .111 .111 .111
Theriot - .250 .250 .250
DeRosa - .500 .500 1.125

Team - 6.00 ERA, 20 H, 11 BB, 12 ER, 16 K
Opponent - 2.50 ERA, 17 H, 4 BB, 5 ER, 16 K

I generally loathe intangables, but I think there is something to this current team simply not having a high pressure makeup when it comes to the playoffs. The split between how they look throughout much of the regular season and then the playoffs is just insane. Aramis and Soriano (and to a lesser degree, Soto) completely shutting down is just crippling.

[TheMojoPin]

Last chance.

Here we go.

[Marc with a c]

it better not be the last chance.

[Jughead]

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m246/Nixon_015/chicago-cubs-b.jpg..That should do it....:smile:

[jauble]

Im running out of stuff to throw at the tv that wont break it. Fucking A. Make sure im not dead in a few hours please....


not saying its over but its hard to keep paint dry.

[TheMojoPin]

Eh...I'm let down, but I went into this with such apprehension after last year and the absolutely crushing disasters of 2003 and 2004 that this, sadly, seems like business as usual. I was guarding myself until I could see they could win at least just A game in the playoffs after last year and, well, here we are. It sucks, but it is what is. A short series is all about who is hot and who gets the breaks (and capitalizes on them), and the Cubs were not hot and did not capitalize on any breaks. Dempster has a career high in walks and gives a grand slam in the opening game and all year at home has averaged less than 2 walks a game and given up only 6 home runs. 2nd game, they have 4 errors, 3 in 1 inning, and give up 4 unearned runs...now you get Harden's shortest outing as a Cub. It's tough to overcome stuff like that.

The Dodgers played better and could get into a groove and the Cubs played sloppy and pressed. This is the result. That's baseball.

[Snoogans]

cubs are ass

[IMSlacker]

Pathetic.

Just like last year, the only bright side is sweet relief from watching any more Frank Calliendo commercials.

[scottinnj]

Sorry Mojo.

Snoogans, you are now my new nemesis. Suck it Dodgers! Go Phils!

[Snoogans]

Sorry Mojo.

Snoogans, you are now my new nemesis. Suck it Dodgers! Go Phils!

knock it off with that shit already. seriously, the horse is so dead people in India are already eatin the motherfucker

edit: Though I will be rooting for the dodgers just cause, if it was up to me, Philadelphia would be torched and allowed to burned to the ground in a heap of rubble that it is

[jauble]

my gun tastes funny...I could swear I was just watching high school girls not get the joke...thanks my younger brothers homecoming.

[Snoogans]

my gun tastes funny...I could swear I was just watching high school girls not get the joke...thanks my younger brothers homecoming.

what?

[jauble]

what?

a bunch of young broads

and this fucking end of a season

[TheMojoPin]

The Cubs have gone to the playoffs (3) or just missed them (1) more times in the last 6 years than in the 55+ years prior to that.

Yes, it increases the chances drastically you have to see this, but it also ups the odds drastically of punching through. They're about to be picked up by any number of new owners with deep pockets who aren't stupid enough to think they can toss out a crappy team and expect to make money, 2006 proved that wrong. Those days are gone. They're gonna put out competitive teams...some not asgood as this one, some maybe even better...and eventually they'll make it.

It's baseball. It is what it is. I'm ready for the winter meetings. I'm loking forward to the team convention. I can't wait for pitchers and catchers to report.

"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball.

I'll tell you what I do.

I stare out the window and wait for spring."

-Rogers Hornsby

[weekapaugjz]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c140/jedisentinal/simpsons_nelson_haha2.jpg

cubs are 0-9 in their last nine playoff games. :lol:

sorry, i just want someone else to feel as bad as mets fans.

[SP1!]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c140/jedisentinal/simpsons_nelson_haha2.jpg

cubs are 0-9 in their last nine playoff games. :lol:

sorry, i just want someone else to feel as bad as mets fans.

Nobody can feel as sorry as mets fans, at least they choked in games after the regular season ended, the mets didnt make it that far.

[weekapaugjz]

Nobody can feel as sorry as mets fans, at least they choked in games after the regular season ended, the mets didnt make it that far.

bigger the game, bigger the choke. trust me, i know this. im a buffalo fan.

also, it's pretty bad to have the best record in the nl only to be swept.

[DiabloSammich]

My condolences, guys, What a fucking way to go out.

If it's any help, I hate Manny Ramirez.

[Dan 'Hampton]

it's pretty bad to have the best record in the nl only to be swept.

Tell the angels that in about 14 hours.

[Ritalin]

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c140/jedisentinal/simpsons_nelson_haha2.jpg

cubs are 0-9 in their last nine playoff games. :lol:

sorry, i just want someone else to feel as bad as mets fans.

YOU SON OF A BITCH.

(go Bears)

[jauble]

The Cubs have gone to the playoffs (3) or just missed them (1) more times in the last 6 years than in the 55+ years prior to that.

Yes, it increases the chances drastically you have to see this, but it also ups the odds drastically of punching through. They're about to be picked up by any number of new owners with deep pockets who aren't stupid enough to think they can toss out a crappy team and expect to make money, 2006 proved that wrong. Those days are gone. They're gonna put out competitive teams...some not as food as this one, some maybe even better...and eventually they'll make it.

It's baseball. It is what it is. I'm ready for the winter meetings. I'm loking forward to the team convention. I can't wait for pitchers and catchers to report.

"People ask me what I do in winter when there's no baseball.

I'll tell you what I do.

I stare out the window and wait for spring."

-Rogers Hornsby

So you were drinking last night too eh?

[midwestjeff]

Don't worry.
Like a great poet once said,
someday you're going to go all the way.



Fucking losers.

[Warren Peace]

while I'm disappointed....I can live with it. I've lived with it my entire life. On the other hand, my Illini kicked scUM's collective dicks in the dirt at "The Big House"...so all is well.

[TheMojoPin]

My condolences, guys, What a fucking way to go out.

If it's any help, I hate Manny Ramirez.

I can't hate Manny. Even after this. He's my huckleberry.

[sailor]

Tell the angels that in about 14 hours.

that's silly. they're not even in the NL.

[TheMojoPin]

that's silly. they're not even in the NL.

Yeah, they've got the best record in both leagues.

[cougarjake13]

sorry cubs fans

[TheMojoPin]

sorry cubs fans

That we are.

[cougarjake13]

That we are.

not the angle i was going for



but like you said, the cubs have had more success in the 2000's then the previous 50 odd years

[TheMojoPin]

but like you said, the cubs have had more success in the 2000's then the previous 50 odd years

Yeah, and you keep getting to those points it only increases your odds of eventually getting to the Fall Classic. It sucks that it also gives you more chances for crap like this, but it's better than hinging everything on sneaking in one every 10, 15 or even 25 years.

[TheMojoPin]

In 1984, the Cubs exited the playoffs losing three in a row to the San Diego Padres.

In 1989, the Cubs exited the playoffs losing three in a row to the San Francisco Giants.

In 1998, the Cubs exited the playoffs losing three in a row to the Atlanta Braves.

In 2003, the Cubs exited the playoffs losing three in a row to the Florida Marlins.

In 2007, the Cubs exited the playoffs losing three in a row to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Guess what happened again?

Ech.

[A.J.]

Blame Jayson Stark for the possible jinx. (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/playoffs2008/columns/story?columnist=stark_jayson&id=3617228)

Jayson Stark - DEAD.

Has he gone into protective custody yet?

[Chris Carpenter's Elbow]

Don't worry.
Like a great poet once said,
someday you're going to go all the way.



Fucking losers.

I'm not feeling too good. :down:

[cougarjake13]

Has he gone into protective custody yet?

if not he better soon

[TheMojoPin]

Joe Sheehan at Baseball Prospectus points out the thing that's key to me that stands out in sharp contrast to any other Cubs team in my lifetime: this team will still be in it next year. They have the luxury of only needing to make 2-3 outside moves at the most to make them arguably just as good or even better. On top of that, he sums up what so many Cubs fans seem to be missing: this was a great season. Yes, the ending sucked and it hurt, but I've had more fun watching the Cubs this year than any other year in my 25 years as a fan.

"Whatever frustration the Cubs, their management, or their fan base may feel at this moment, what they cannot and should not do is lose sight of the fact that the 2008 Cubs were a very good baseball team. There was no missing link, no fatal flaw, nothing in the construction that portended a short stay in the postseason. They caught a bad matchup and had a three-game losing streak at the wrong time, and the rules of the game don't allow for that. This was the Cubs' fifth three-game losing streak of the season; these things happen even to 94-win teams (actually 97, as we all know). That they lost three in row, to a quality team, is just baseball. That they did so from October 1 through October 4 unfortunately means that they don't get to play on October 5. None of that, however, makes the 2008 Cubs less than what they were: the best team in the NL for six months. It just means they won't win a championship."

I can't wait until the spring.

[weekapaugjz]

I can't wait until the spring.

I used to say the same thing about the bills and september. And we all know how that turned out.

[K.C.]

The thing with that Prospectus write up, is while I do agree the Cubs will be very competitive again next season, you have to look at the flip of that.

Where exactly can they improve? Because I don't really see any significant moves for them on the horizon, unless they could find a taker for Fukudome.

And while the Brewers may be a casualty of most likely having to completely overhaul their pitching staff next season, the Cardinals and Astros should both be significantly better, partially from getting healthy, and partially because they will make significant moves this offseason.

If the Astros can re-sign Wolf, and add one more guy to that rotation (Sheets and Hampton are the rumors), they suddenly become much more formidable.

So while the Cubs will probably be favorites to win the division again in '09, I don't think it'll get much easier.

[PhilDeez]

The thing with that Prospectus write up, is while I do agree the Cubs will be very competitive again next season, you have to look at the flip of that.

Where exactly can they improve? Because I don't really see any significant moves for them on the horizon, unless they could find a taker for Fukudome.

And while the Brewers may be a casualty of most likely having to completely overhaul their pitching staff next season, the Cardinals and Astros should both be significantly better, partially from getting healthy, and partially because they will make significant moves this offseason.

If the Astros can re-sign Wolf, and add one more guy to that rotation (Sheets and Hampton are the rumors), they suddenly become much more formidable.

So while the Cubs will probably be favorites to win the division again in '09, I don't think it'll get much easier.

You are crazy. They don't have to improve at all. They won the division going away, were by far the best team in the NL all season, and now people want to clean house because they shit the bed in a 5 game series? I am a life long die hard Dodgers fan, and can admit had it been a 7 game series it might have turned out differently. The 5 game opening series is a crap shoot, it does not always allow for the best team to win.
I hope the Cubs make stupid off season moves, but if they kept the status quo I think at a minimum we would be having this same argument next year. They playoffs don't often produce the best team standing in the end.

[TheMojoPin]

The thing with that Prospectus write up, is while I do agree the Cubs will be very competitive again next season, you have to look at the flip of that.

Where exactly can they improve? Because I don't really see any significant moves for them on the horizon, unless they could find a taker for Fukudome.

Why move Fukudome off the team? Just slide him over to CF and resign Johnson. He can easily handle the defense and even if he just improves to around .270/.360/.380 it makes his production look that much better.

And while the Brewers may be a casualty of most likely having to completely overhaul their pitching staff next season, the Cardinals and Astros should both be significantly better, partially from getting healthy, and partially because they will make significant moves this offseason.

If the Astros can re-sign Wolf, and add one more guy to that rotation (Sheets and Hampton are the rumors), they suddenly become much more formidable.

Wolf is a horrible pitcher. The Astros' played out of their mind to make their end of the season push, but overall their rotation needs a lot of work and their hitting is pretty limited outside of like 4-5 guys and their bullpen isn't terribly good.

So while the Cubs will probably be favorites to win the division again in '09, I don't think it'll get much easier.

The Cardinals' run lasted longer than anyone thought, but make no mistake in assuming it wasn't a fluke. Carpenter is a huge question mark an Wainwright coming back is amost certainly offset by the pitchers they had pitching WAY above their heads coming back down to earth. Their bullpen is a mess and their offense is really thin outside of Ludwick and Pujols. Ankiel has pop, but essentially can't use it against anything but fastballs. Don't forget that Pujols is might end up having surgery in the offseason, too. In all, it's a huge longshot for them to replicate 2007, much less doing better.

[El Mudo]

Wouldn't it be more of an offseason "hullabaloo" than a "hootenanny"?

[TheMojoPin]

Hell no.

This is quite the shindig.

[cougarjake13]

Quote:
"Whatever frustration the Cubs, their management, or their fan base may feel at this moment, what they cannot and should not do is lose sight of the fact that the 2008 Cubs were a very good baseball team. There was no missing link, no fatal flaw, nothing in the construction that portended a short stay in the postseason. They caught a bad matchup and had a three-game losing streak at the wrong time, and the rules of the game don't allow for that. This was the Cubs' fifth three-game losing streak of the season; these things happen even to 94-win teams (actually 97, as we all know). That they lost three in row, to a quality team, is just baseball. That they did so from October 1 through October 4 unfortunately means that they don't get to play on October 5. None of that, however, makes the 2008 Cubs less than what they were: the best team in the NL for six months. It just means they won't win a championship."


unfortunately they dont give out trophies for the best team after 6 months

[TheMojoPin]

Quote:
"Whatever frustration the Cubs, their management, or their fan base may feel at this moment, what they cannot and should not do is lose sight of the fact that the 2008 Cubs were a very good baseball team. There was no missing link, no fatal flaw, nothing in the construction that portended a short stay in the postseason. They caught a bad matchup and had a three-game losing streak at the wrong time, and the rules of the game don't allow for that. This was the Cubs' fifth three-game losing streak of the season; these things happen even to 94-win teams (actually 97, as we all know). That they lost three in row, to a quality team, is just baseball. That they did so from October 1 through October 4 unfortunately means that they don't get to play on October 5. None of that, however, makes the 2008 Cubs less than what they were: the best team in the NL for six months. It just means they won't win a championship."


unfortunately they dont give out trophies for the best team after 6 months

And who said anything of the sort?

[IMSlacker]

unfortunately they dont give out trophies for the best team after 6 months

They do give out a nifty cap and t-shirt though.

[Ritalin]

Go Bears

[TheMojoPin]

Cubs pick up Harden's 2009 option. (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081008&content_id=3603644&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc)

Harden was examined by Cubs orthopedic specialist Dr. Stephen Gryzlo on Wednesday and underwent an MRI arthrogram on his right shoulder. The pitcher, who has rotator tendinitis and some subtle instability in his shoulder, will not need offseason surgery.

In short, typical wear and tear.

Harden was 5-1 with a 1.77 ERA in 12 starts for the Cubs, who acquired the right-hander July 8 from the Oakland Athletics. He was 10-2 with a 2.07 ERA combined for the A's and Cubs, making 25 starts, the most he's totaled since his career-high 31 games in 2004.

I have no problem limiting him to around 25 starts again. Skip him every so often and let the glut of pitching prospects they have get some experience.

[cougarjake13]

And who said anything of the sort?

no one here


just who ever that quote was from


the patriots were the best team in football for 5 months but they didnt win the super bowel so who cares

[cougarjake13]

Cubs pick up Harden's 2009 option. (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081008&content_id=3603644&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc)



In short, typical wear and tear.



I have no problem limiting him to around 25 starts again. Skip him every so often and let the glut of pitching prospects they have get some experience.


so maybe a six man rotation only that its still five as the 6th guy takes hardens spot every once in a while


could work

[TheMojoPin]

no one here


just who ever that quote was from


the patriots were the best team in football for 5 months but they didnt win the super bowel so who cares

I'm sure Pats fans do.

The point of the article is to point out that the final 3 games do negate the previous 161 (the Cubs didn't play 162). You get tons of people flipping out like the awesomeness of the regular season has to be forgotten because of how it ended. The writer is saying that the Cubs should be given the championship...he's just pointing out that the playoff exit doesn't erase everything else.

[TheMojoPin]

Cubs losing = hilarity. (http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=187570&title=the-stupid-vote)

It's the least we can do.

[Bossanova]

GM gets an extension. Thinks its a good move, he did some good things.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8698472/Cubs-give-GM-Hendry-4-year-extension

[TheMojoPin]

GM gets an extension. Thinks its a good move, he did some good things.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8698472/Cubs-give-GM-Hendry-4-year-extension

Yeah, a year or two ago I would have been pissed but Hendry seems caable when not held back money-wise. If he signs Adan Dunn as he supposedly wants to do as his #1 offseason move, he'll be my god.

[cougarjake13]

Cubs,-Braves-in-running-to-get-Pads'-Peavy (http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8765068/Cubs,-Braves-in-running-to-get-Pads'-Peavy)

[ozzie]

Cubs,-Braves-in-running-to-get-Pads'-Peavy (http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/8765068/Cubs,-Braves-in-running-to-get-Pads'-Peavy)

Mobile's own Jake Peavy in Cubs pinstripes?!?!?!

Hendry, MAKE THIS HAPPEN!!!

[TheMojoPin]

Surprisingly, the Cubs have a decent shot at this. The Braves have made it clear they don't want to move their better prospects, and if they were, this deal would be done already. That this deal is rumored to ultimately be between 3or 4 teams has Hendry's big fat fingerprints all over it.

I really hope they include Greene in the deal. He's fucking rake power-wise away from those giant west coast stadiums, and he's stellar defensively.

[IMSlacker]

Geovany Soto wins NL Rookie of the Year (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3693255)

[cougarjake13]

Geovany Soto wins NL Rookie of the Year (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3693255)



well deserved

[TheMojoPin]

It's insane how beloved Soto is with this fanbase. If he can keep the weight down, he should have quite a few years of success anchoring this team behind the plate. Way to go, Geo!

[cougarjake13]

It's insane how beloved Soto is with this fanbase. If he can keep the weight down, he should have quite a few years of success anchoring this team behind the plate. Way to go, Geo!


only saw brief glimpses of him during the season and playoffs



is he that god to be a biggio like guy in that they eventually move him to another position to limit the wear and tear on his body ??

i know you got lee at first and aramis at 3rd and those are usually the first places former catchers go

[TheMojoPin]

Well, it's the end of the Kerry Wood era with the Cubs. (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081113&content_id=3677970&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc)

As much as it makes sense with Wood wanting a multi-year deal and the Cubs having Marmol to close and needing the money for a bat and/or a starting pitcher, this one hurts.

So long, Kerry. It's been a bumpy road, but you'll aways be one of my top 5 favorite Cubs. That 20 strikeout game will forever be one of the greatest baseball achievements I've been lucky enough to see.

[jauble]

Well, it's the end of the Kerry Wood era with the Cubs. (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20081113&content_id=3677970&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc)

As much as it makes sense with Wood wanting a multi-year deal and the Cubs having Marmol to close and needing the money for a bat and/or a starting pitcher, this one hurts.

So long, Kerry. It's been a bumpy road, but you'll aways be one of my top 5 favorite Cubs. That 20 strikeout game will forever be one of the greatest baseball achievements I've been lucky enough to see.

I gotta agree, this really kind of makes me sad. Best of luck to Kerry.

[TheMojoPin]

Even though the end result was disaster, this is still one of my favorite Cubs moments:

<embed width="448" height="361" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" src="http://i28.photobucket.com/player.swf?file=http://vid28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/badger195/WoodNLCSHR.flv">

[TheMojoPin]

OK...WHAT THE FUCK.

Wood: Leaving Cubs is 'bittersweet'
By Paul Sullivan

Kerry Wood called his departure from the Cubs "bittersweet" on Friday, but said he'd been preparing for the possibility of leaving through the 2008 season and wasn’t surprised by general manager Jim Hendry’s decision to go in another direction.

"It's bittersweet," Wood said. "Obviously this was my first choice. I wanted to stay here, and it was the best choice for me and my family… (but) it was good to hear it out of his mouth, the honesty. It’s a rarity in the game."

Wood said he’d prefer to stay in the National League, but is open to going anywhere. The New York Mets are looking for a closer, Texas is close to his childhood home, and the Los Angeles Angels may now be in the picture after waving bye to Francisco Rodriguez.

But there's a glut of closers on the market, so where Wood will wind up is anyone's guess right now.

"There are plenty of teams out there," he said. "I’ll find my niche somewhere."

While Wood was understanding about the Cubs' decision, which Hendry said was made in the best interests of Wood and his family, he did say he would've been amenable to staying and "would have done anything" to stay a Cub. The Cubs told him to go get a three- or four-year deal for more money, but Wood said he would've agreed to a one-year deal to stay.

"That was an avenue we kind of approached," he said. "But they’ve got some issues they've got to take care of, and at the end I wasn't as important as lot of other aspects of the team. (Carlos) Marmol, we all know what he's capable of doing… it is what it is."

Wood found out he was no longer wanted a few days ago during a dinner with his agent and Hendry. But he was mentally preparing for the possibility all season, making the news a little easier to digest.

"I had to prepare myself for this last year, and that maybe helped me enjoy this past summer a little bit better, knowing it could possible be my last year with the Cubs," he said.

"Did I want to leave? Of course not," he said. "I wanted to end my career here, and start taking my kids to the games. But in the end, having a little bit of knowledge about the organization, and what's going on with the team and who was up for free agency and the contracts, I had a pretty good idea. It didn't catch me off-guard. I was disappointed and obviously would've loved to have stayed here, but that's baseball."

He would have agreed to a one year deal? THEN FUCKING GIVE HIM ONE, HENDRY.

This is baffling...Wood has clearly loved being a Cubs, and the fanbase fucking adores him. He showed he could be excellent out of the bullpen...why not offer another incentive-laden one year deal like he got last year? Yeah, he ended up making over $8 million...but because he hit his incentives and was one of the best closers in the game.

This is bullshit.

[IMSlacker]

OK...WHAT THE FUCK.



He would have agreed to a one year deal? THEN FUCKING GIVE HIM ONE, HENDRY.

This is baffling...Wood has clearly loved being a Cubs, and the fanbase fucking adores him. He showed he could be excellent out of the bullpen...why not offer another incentive-laden one year deal like he got last year? Yeah, he ended up making over $8 million...but because he hit his incentives and was one of the best closers in the game.

This is bullshit.

If that's the case, won't he accept arbitration if they offer it? And, if they don't offer arbitration, no draft picks.

[TheMojoPin]

If that's the case, won't he accept arbitration if they offer it? And, if they don't offer arbitration, no draft picks.

Yeah, the mention of not having offered him arbitration yet is worrisome. If Hendry manages to deprive the Cubs of both Wood AND 2 first round picks...I can't be held respinsible for my actions.

[IMSlacker]

Yeah, the mention of not having offered him arbitration yet is worrisome. If Hendry manages to deprive the Cubs of both Wood AND 2 first round picks...I can't be held respinsible for my actions.

I think if someone signs him before the arbitration deadline, they can then offer arbitration and he wouldn't be able to accept. Maybe that's the strategy.

[TheMojoPin]

I think if someone signs him before the arbitration deadline, they can then offer arbitration and he wouldn't be able to accept. Maybe that's the strategy.

I'm pretty sure you're right.

Still, this is infuriating.

[cougarjake13]

i wouldnt mind seeing wood in a mets uni

[TheMojoPin]

i wouldnt mind seeing wood in a mets uni

That just might kill me.

[IMSlacker]

That just might kill me.

Cardinals would be worse. So much worse.

[cougarjake13]

Cardinals would be worse. So much worse.

yeh i was gonna say that #1 and the white sox #2

[IMSlacker]

yeh i was gonna say that #1 and the white sox #2

I'd put the Brewers at #2. I don't care about the White Sox.

[TheMojoPin]

I'd put the Brewers at #2. I don't care about the White Sox.

Not me. The Cardinals, White Sox and Mets are my all time hated Cubs rivals. The Brewers are just Johnny-come-latelys. If I can't work up the effort to hate the Pirates or the Reds, I'm sure as hell not going to hate the Brewers.

[IMSlacker]

Not me. The Cardinals, White Sox and Mets are my all time hated Cubs rivals. The Brewers are just Johnny-come-latelys. If I can't work up the effort to hate the Pirates or the Reds, I'm sure as hell not going to hate the Brewers.

I don't hate the Brewers, I just don't want Wood closing for them.

[K.C.]

Wood will end up a Metropolitan. Book it.

And that angers me because he's clearly a better option than K-Rod and Fuentes.

[Bossanova]

Wood will end up a Metropolitan. Book it.

And that angers me because he's clearly a better option than K-Rod and Fuentes.

Oh why dont you go cry into your new cap and shirt. Your guy didnt blow a save, spread the wealth

[cougarjake13]

Wood will end up a Metropolitan. Book it.

And that angers me because he's clearly a better option than K-Rod and Fuentes.

anythings better than wagner

[K.C.]

anythings better than wagner

That reminds me...what ever happened to Towelie?

[cougarjake13]

That reminds me...what ever happened to Towelie?

he went MIA 2 weeks before the end of the season


i think it was bdc in disguise

lots of similarities

[Bossanova]

That reminds me...what ever happened to Towelie?

There is no way he would be able to hang your insults once the Mets died..........AGAIN

[K.C.]

There is no way he would be able to hang your insults once the Mets died..........AGAIN

I would have been nice if he had just conceded that I was right all along (which I was).

You guys have to feel pretty good, now, though.

The first collapse hurt...the second collapse angered...if they hit the trifecta next season, I figure you guys will be pretty much numb to it by this point.

And while we've hijacked this Cubs thread, let me say that if the Mets don't make the playoffs next season, they need to blow it up.

If they can sign a solid outfielder, a couple good bullpen arms, and Wood as the closer, I think they'll have a decent shot of getting in one way or another.

But if they don't win next season, it's time for a house cleaning. Omar gone. Jerry gone. Reyes gone. Beltran gone. Keep Wright.

[Bossanova]

I would have been nice if he had just conceded that I was right all along (which I was).

You guys have to feel pretty good, now, though.

The first collapse hurt...the second collapse angered...if they hit the trifecta next season, I figure you guys will be pretty much numb to it by this point.

And while we've hijacked this Cubs thread, let me say that if the Mets don't make the playoffs next season, they need to blow it up.

If they can sign a solid outfielder, a couple good bullpen arms, and Wood as the closer, I think they'll have a decent shot of getting in one way or another.

But if they don't win next season, it's time for a house cleaning. Omar gone. Jerry gone. Reyes gone. Beltran gone. Keep Wright.



I agree 100% sir

[IMSlacker]

GET OUT!!!

[epo]

I'd put the Brewers at #2. I don't care about the White Sox.

Mind you that Kerry Wood was so loyal to the Cubs that even though Milwaukee offered him two years....and the Cubs offered 1 he stayed in Chicago gladly.

Now I hope that he takes the deal he should've last year, without compensation for Hendry's front office and moves 90 miles north.

[epo]

From the Chicago Tribune: (http://blogs.chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/rosenblog/2008/11/wood-could-be-b.html)

Wood could be back in Wrigley -- as a Brewer

The Brewers need a closer with Salomon Torres retired and Eric Gagne still awful, and Wood would still be able to live in Chicago. Two nice fits there.

Here’s a third: The Brewers made an offer to Wood last offseason, willing to go two years while the Cubs offered only one. Wood stuck around, had a career relief year, and priced himself out of the Cubs’ rent district.

[TheMojoPin]

Meh. I'd be surprised if they outspent the Mets, or if Woody didn't prefer to head home to Texas.

[Aneurysm]

I like a Woods move to NY. I hope the Mets dont over pay for K-Rod

[Kris10]

GET OUT!!!

LOL

:clap:

[cougarjake13]

rangers as usual suck so why go there ??

[Marc with a c]

move over curse of the goat, he comes eddie's curse.


Onstage in Chicago this week, Smashing Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan called out Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder for, of all things, the Cubs' disappointing season. See, a few months ago Vedder wrote a song about the Cubs called "All the Way," and Corgan, a die-hard fan, thinks he jinxed them. "If the Cubs did have a chance this last year that just passed, fuckin’ Eddie Vedder killed that shit dead. Last I checked Eddie ain’t living here, okay? Eddie ain’t living here to write a song about my fuckin’ team." We guess this is what alt-rock feuds look like when everyone's in their forties.

[TheMojoPin]

move over curse of the goat, he comes eddie's curse.

Billy's an idiot. Besides, the song came out last year.

[IMSlacker]

The Cubs decided not to offer arbitration to Kerry Wood (or any of their other free agents). Hendry is now back on my shit list.

[Ritalin]

So, Ron Santo comes up short for the Hall again.

I have to say, I feel bad for the guy, if for no other reason than that he really seems to want it and does his suffering so publicly.

But, I don't think he's a Hall of Famer. I'm sure someone can stir up the stats and make the case, but he just doesn't pass the test for me. I just don't look at him and think Hall of Fame., and unfortunately for him it looks like I'm not the only one.

[jauble]

So, Ron Santo comes up short for the Hall again.

I have to say, I feel bad for the guy, if for no other reason than that he really seems to want it and does his suffering so publicly.

But, I don't think he's a Hall of Famer. I'm sure someone can stir up the stats and make the case, but he just doesn't pass the test for me. I just don't look at him and think Hall of Fame., and unfortunately for him it looks like I'm not the only one.

Here we go again.

[midwestjeff]

Here we go again.

On our own?

Going down the only road we've ever known?

[cougarjake13]

Here we go again.

On our own?

Going down the only road we've ever known?



Like a drifter I was born to walk alone

[epo]

So, Ron Santo comes up short for the Hall again.

I have to say, I feel bad for the guy, if for no other reason than that he really seems to want it and does his suffering so publicly.

But, I don't think he's a Hall of Famer. I'm sure someone can stir up the stats and make the case, but he just doesn't pass the test for me. I just don't look at him and think Hall of Fame., and unfortunately for him it looks like I'm not the only one.

It's the Hall of Fame, not the Hall of Very Good.

[IMSlacker]

Kerry Wood has officially signed with the Indians. (http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2008/12/its_official_kerry_wood_is_a_c.html) And no draft picks for the Cubs. Jim Hendry is an ass.

[Ritalin]

I don't want Bobby Abreu.

He's a loser.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

It's the Hall of Fame, not the Hall of Very Good.

6th best 3rd baseman, offensively and defensively, in all of baseball, of all time.

Anyone who thinks he doesn't belong in the Hall is baseball retarded. Sorry, them's the breaks. There's asolutely no legit reason for him to not be in.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

Kerry Wood has officially signed with the Indians. (http://www.cleveland.com/tribe/index.ssf/2008/12/its_official_kerry_wood_is_a_c.html) And no draft picks for the Cubs. Jim Hendry is an ass.

Nah. Had they offered Wood arbitration, there's a good chance he would have accepted and they would have been paying him over $8 million. You don't do that for a closer when you have someone like Marmol on the staff and it saves you that much money and yoou have a budget crunch due to the team being sold. It sucks to see Wood go, but the Cubs need to spend their money elsewhere besides the bullpen.

With Marquis likely to be traded and DeRosa possibly moved, the idea of the Cubs signing Furcal and Bradley is being buzzed, plus the Peavy deal is still hovering, though now there's talk they might go after Lowe instead and sign him. I really like these moves, and not paying almost $9 million for a reliever is a big part of getting them done.

[IMSlacker]

Nah. Had they offered Wood arbitration, there's a good chance he would have accepted and they would have been paying him over $8 million. You don't do that for a closer when you have someone like Marmol on the staff and it saves you that much money and yoou have a budget crunch due to the team being sold. It sucks to see Wood go, but the Cubs need to spend their money elsewhere besides the bullpen.

With Marquis likely to be traded and DeRosa possibly moved, the idea of the Cubs signing Furcal and Bradley is being buzzed, plus the Peavy deal is still hovering, though now there's talk they might go after Lowe instead and sign him. I really like these moves, and not paying almost $9 million for a reliever is a big part of getting them done.

Don't try to fool me with your fancy logic. I'm outraged!!!

I just hope they can find someone to pitch the 8th. I'm not quite sold on Kevin Gregg.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

Don't try to fool me with your fancy logic. I'm outraged!!!

I just hope they can find someone to pitch the 8th. I'm not quite sold on Kevin Gregg.

Someone will step up. I hope they keep Wuertz, because he could be that guy...plus between Gaudin, Shark, Guzman, Ascanio and Gregg, that role will be filled. The bullpen is the least of my worries for 2009.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

The upside with Gregg is he gets you the comp picks for Wood a year later. Even if Gregg tanks next season, his history as a closer would make him a class A FA, and that would net 2 comp picks if the Cubs offer arbitration and he signs elsewhere, which he likely would since his arbi would be so low.

[Ritalin]

Milton Bradley?

I don't know about that one. I don't think this club needs a head case in the dugout.

[IMSlacker]

Milton Bradley?

I don't know about that one. I don't think this club needs a head case in the dugout.

I like the move. He can hit like a bastard. I'm not too worried about the head-case stuff. The injuries worry me more.

[cougarjake13]

I like the move. He can hit like a bastard. I'm not too worried about the head-case stuff. The injuries worry me more.

he really hasnt been a head case in a while anyway

[TheMojoPin]

I like the move. He can hit like a bastard. I'm not too worried about the head-case stuff. The injuries worry me more.

Yeah, same here. The headcase stuff is more focused on by the media and people outside of baseball. He's apparently got a reputation for being loved by his teammates and coaches. The injuries though...I'll be happy if they get 100 games out of him. When he's there, however, his bat helps huge, especially hitting from the left. If Fontenot keeps it up, he's perfect to hit #2. I'd set it up like this:

Soriano
Fontenot (Lefty)
Aramis
Bradley (Lefty)
Lee
Soto
Fukudome (Lefty) / Johnson
Theriot

Nice.

[TheMojoPin]

Apparently the 3rd year of Bradley's contract is only guarenteed if he plays a certain number of games over the first 2 seasons, which makes it a LOT better. Hooooorah for vested options.

[Ritalin]

he really hasnt been a head case in a while anyway

Yes, for one year. Last year.

His contract year.

[IMSlacker]

Yes, for one year. Last year.

His contract year.

I think he's been on one year contracts for the two or three years.

[Ritalin]

I think he's been on one year contracts for the two or three years.

And then he behaved himself, and now he has a multiyear contract.

I guess we'll see, but it was interesting to read this morning that they were after Bradley a couple of years ago. Dusty sat and had dinner with him, and the next day the Cubs weren't interested any more.

When Dusty passes on you, you're trouble.

[jauble]

Soriano
Fontenot (Lefty)
Aramis
Bradley (Lefty)
Lee
Soto
Fukudome (Lefty) / Johnson
Theriot

Nice.

Agreed. I was a little sad to see DeRosa go though. Best of luck to him.

[TheMojoPin]

Agreed. I was a little sad to see DeRosa go though. Best of luck to him.

Yeah, DeRo is the man, but I see why they had to let him go. He's 32 and with only 1 year left on his deal and they needed the money to fill a big hole they had in the OF and in the lineup. A platoon of Fontenot and Miles is actually projected to be a bit more productive offensively than DeRosa at 2nd, though his versatility will definitely be missed.

[TheMojoPin]

And then he behaved himself, and now he has a multiyear contract.

I guess we'll see, but it was interesting to read this morning that they were after Bradley a couple of years ago. Dusty sat and had dinner with him, and the next day the Cubs weren't interested any more.

When Dusty passes on you, you're trouble.

Or it just reinforces the well-known fact that Baker is an idiot.

He had his issues in 2004 and, what, 2007?

[IMSlacker]

Yeah, DeRo is the man, bt I see why they had to let him go. He's 32 and with only 1 year left on his deal ad they needed the money to fill a bi hole they had in the OF and in the lineup. A platoon of Fontenot and Miles is actually projected to be a bit more productive offensively than DeRosa at 2nd, though his versatility will definitely be missed.

We're gonna miss DeRosa a lot for those twenty or so games when Ramirez is hurt.

[TheMojoPin]

We're gonna miss DeRosa a lot for those twenty or so games when Ramirez is hurt.

Definitely.

[jauble]

Marquis sent to rockies to create salary cap room. Cubs pick up Vizcaino.

Enjoy the cold Jason.

[cougarjake13]

Marquis sent to rockies to create salary cap room. Cubs pick up Vizcaino.

Enjoy the cold Jason.

its pretty cold in chi town too

[TheMojoPin]

Yeah, I'd say something more like, "enjoy all the home runs hit of off you in that bandbox, you overpaid hump."

[Kevin]

Yeah, I'd say something more like, "enjoy all the home runs hit of off you in that bandbox, you overpaid hump."



How would that be different from his time in Chicago?

[TheMojoPin]

How would that be different from his time in Chicago?

More will be hit off of him in Colorado.

[Kevin]

More will be hit off of him in Colorado.



Aren't Hrs down in Rado?

[jauble]

its pretty cold in chi town too

I was never a Marquis fan and Im glad to see him go. I dont care if he wins a cy young with the rockies Im glad to have him off of my team.

[TheMojoPin]

Aren't Hrs down in Rado?

Still the 4th HR happiest park around.

[TheMojoPin]

I was never a Marquis fan and Im glad to see him go. I dont care if he wins a cy young with the rockies Im glad to have him off of my team.

Actually, if they had signed him for what he was worth and paid him, like, $12 million total over 3 years, I would have had no problem with him. I can't fault the guy for taking a stupid contract dropped in his lap, but damn, it made it easy to hate him.

[IMSlacker]

For the first half of the 2007 season, he was fantastic.

[TheMojoPin]

For the first half of the 2007 season, he was fantastic.

He's done that a couple times in his career. He makes up for it by turning to dogshit in the 2nd half.

[TheMojoPin]

OK, Cubs fans...the sale process seem to be winding down...here's who it's going to be between, as per the Trib:

Tribune Co., owner of the Chicago Cubs, is close to selecting a winning bid for the team from three finalists, according to people familiar with the sales talks.

The Chicago-based media conglomerate has been evaluating bids since the beginning of December and could make a decision within a week to 10 days, sources said. But one source cautioned that the process of narrowing the auction to one bidder still could be derailed, and Tribune Co. could pull the team and its landmark stadium off the market.

The company, which is controlled by Chicago real estate investor Sam Zell, also has not held firm to past deadlines. Zell had said he hoped to select a winning bidder by the end of 2008. A Tribune Co. spokesman declined to comment Monday night.

Once the winning bid is chosen, the deal is far from completion. Tribune Co. plans to enter into negotiations with the prospective buyer to work out a sale. Tight credit markets make it more difficult to obtain loans to finance a transaction that could approach $1 billion.

Three prospective buyers made offers for the franchise at the end of November: Chicago real estate investor Hersch Klaff; the Ricketts family, founders of online brokerage TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.; and a group led by Marc Utay, a New York private-equity investor who grew up in Chicago.

If the winning bidder is able to finalize a contract with Tribune Co., the buyer must be approved by three-quarters of baseball owners. It is also possible a bankruptcy court judge will have a say in the process, because Tribune Co. filed for Chapter 11 protection Dec. 8. The Cubs are not included in the filing, but the sale would generate proceeds for debtholders.

Here's the Trib's summary of each guy:

Tom Ricketts

Resume: Family patriarch J. Joe Ricketts became an online-stock-trading leader by founding the Ameritrade discount brokerage in Omaha. Forbes estimates the family's wealth at $2.6 billion. The bid's point person is son Tom Ricketts, who moved to Chicago in 1983 to attend college and lives in the suburbs. Two siblings, Laura Ricketts and Todd Ricketts, live in the Chicago area. The fourth, Pete Ricketts, lives in Omaha and ran for the U.S. Senate in 2006.

Business style: Tom Ricketts wanted to make it on his own and never worked at Ameritrade, now TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. A market maker at the Chicago Board Options Exchange and finance executive before starting investment bank Incapital LLC.

Cubs connection: Tom Ricketts grew up watching the team on WGN. Once lived in an apartment above a bar across the street from Wrigley Field. Met his wife in the bleachers at a Cubs game.

Personal: Undergraduate and MBA degrees from the University of Chicago. Married, with five children.

Quote: "There are a lot of people in this world that would say Tom Ricketts is their best friend," said Curt Conklin, a college roommate who has worked at Ameritrade and Incapital. "If you wanted to go have a beer, Tom was there."

Marc Utay

Business style: During the 1990s put together leveraged buyout deals in media, telecommunications and entertainment for investment banker Wasserstein Perella. A director of IMAX Corp., the large-format film company. Said to have bid on two hockey franchises without winning either.

Cubs connection: Grew up a Cubs fan in Glenview. Admires how the Boston Red Sox owners have expanded the franchise's entertainment and sports assets. His investor group includes media investor Leo Hindery, who once ran YES Network, the New York Yankees' TV channel.

Personal: Attended New Trier West High School; Rahm Emanuel, President-elect Barack Obama's chief of staff, was a classmate. On debate team and was associate editor of school newspaper. Graduated in 1977. Undergraduate and MBA degrees from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Married attorney Mindy Gildin of Long Island, N.Y., in 1988; two sons. Mother, Florence Utay, lives in Lincolnshire.

Quote: "He was a bright guy, a debate team guy, very opinionated," said high school classmate Ed Sherman, a former Chicago Tribune sports reporter.

Hersch Klaff

Resume: A South African who moved to Chicago in the 1970s and made his money in real estate, buying distressed retail properties. Formed Klaff Realty LP in 1982 and amassed properties in the Loop. Bought shuttered stores from Kmart, Montgomery Ward, Albertson's and Mervyns.

Business style: Low profile. But an aggressive dealmaker who works with private-equity firms such as Lubert-Adler Real Estate Funds and Cerberus Capital Management LP.

Personal: Graduated from the University of Witmatarsrand in Johannesburg with a degree in economics and accounting. Klaff and his wife, Avril, opened their Glencoe home in September as part of a Museum of Contemporary Art fundraiser, hosting a tour of their collection of South American and Israeli art, accompanied by a poolside Brazilian buffet.

Sports background: An avid soccer fan. A boxer in his youth while doing a required stint in South African Air Force. An exercise devotee who has been known to bicycle between meetings with papers tucked in a backpack.

Quote: "He loves nothing more than a good sweat," said longtime friend and fellow South African Eric Joss. Klaff often invited Joss to sit courtside at Chicago Bulls games during Michael Jordan era.

Ricketts is my personal favorite at this point, though Utay doesn't sound too bad. Klaff sounds fucking horrible. His description makes him sound like a shitty James Bond villain from the 1980's.

And just to make the fallout of Cuban sting even more (from his blog):

I had no intentions of trying to outspend the Yankees or Red Sox. There was no reason to. I didnt have to beat either of those teams unless I made it to the World Series. The only teams I had to be better than were those in the National League, and more importantly, those in my division. There were no big spending rivals close to home, so the AL East could spend themselves silly. My plans were to spend to win, not to spend for spending’s sake. IMHO, the money I could save being in the 2nd tier of payroll could be invested in scouting and development. I made this clear to any and all of the owners that I spoke to across the league. Of course that didnt stop some from trying to convince some owners otherwise.

*SIGH*

Go Ricketts. Let's get this done, FINALLY.

[TheMojoPin]

Photos from the annual Cubs' convention:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565269.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565270.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565272.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565251.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565252.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565254.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565255.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565258.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565215.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565216.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565229.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565214.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565187.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565211.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565212.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565186.jpg
http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/photo/2009-01/44565174.jpg

[jauble]

Thanks for the photos mojo. How many days till pitchers and catchers again?...

[TheMojoPin]

Thanks for the photos mojo. How many days till pitchers and catchers again?...

26 days!

[TheMojoPin]

Oh yeah, Zambrano got LASIK surgery. Said he was bothered by blurry vision in his right eye most of last season.

[TheMojoPin]

Kerry Wood took out a full page ad in the Tribune today. I'll try ad get a decent scan of it later, but here's the text of it:

It has been an honor to have been a Chicago Cub for the last 13 years and to have played in the greatest ballpark Wrigley Field. My deepest thanks go to my teammates and the Cubs organization for taking a chance on a kids from Texas and welcoming me into the Cubs family. Thank you Cubs fans, the greatest fans in all of baseball, for believing in me and supporting me over the years. I will always be proud to have been a Chicago Cub. Although I'm a member of a new "tribe" I will be forever be a Chicagoan.

http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/watchdog/blog/sigh.jpg

I understand why a deal couldn't have been reached given his success as a closer and the nebulous nature of the Cub' owernhip combined with their team needs in other areas with the limited money, but man, it's still sad to see him go.

[TheMojoPin]

Pie traded to the O's for Garret Olson and Hank Williamson. (http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/W/Hank-Williamson.shtml)

Pretty good deal given that they basically had to trade him. Olson is someone the Padres want, which just further shapes up a Peavy deal once ownership is settled and the payroll increase can be approved. Williamson is young, but his strikeout/walk ratio is pretty sick.

[epo]

Pie traded to the O's for Garret Olson and Hank Williamson. (http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/W/Hank-Williamson.shtml)

Pretty good deal given that they basically had to trade him. Olson is someone the Padres want, which just further shapes up a Peavy deal once ownership is settled and the payroll increase can be approved. Williamson is young, but his strikeout/walk ratio is pretty sick.

Wait....the Cubs got something of value for Pie? That's insane.

[Snoogans]

Mojo do you get sad when you talk to just yourself in here. JESUS. Doesnt your team have other fans?

[TheMojoPin]

Mojo do you get sad when you talk to just yourself in here. JESUS. Doesnt your team have other fans?

There are clearly other Cubs fans on the board...I simply post the news for them to view if they wish. I care not if they comment.

[TheMojoPin]

Wait....the Cubs got something of value for Pie? That's insane.

Given that he's out of options and they moronically devalued him as per usual with their prospects, yes, it's a miracle they got something of value in return.

[Snoogans]

http://collateraldamage.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/cubs.jpg

[TheMojoPin]

Here's a tip...you're really bad at this.

[epo]

Given that he's out of options and they moronically devalued him as per usual with their prospects, yes, it's a miracle they got something of value in return.

Interesting. I always thought Pie was valued just right.....shitty.

[TheMojoPin]

Interesting. I always thought Pie was valued just right.....shitty.

Yeah, a guy that young, cheap, would obviously be at least one of the abolute best defensive CFers in baseball and who has just gotten better with each level of the minors has zero value.

Even Ned Colletti thinks epo would be a shitty GM.

[Snoogans]

Yeah, a guy that young, cheap, would obviously be at least one of the abolute best defensive CFers in baseball and who has just gotten better with each level of the minors has zero value.

Even Ned Colletti thinks epo would be a shitty GM.

I personally woulda traded Pie for a big chocolate cake

[jauble]

I personally woulda traded Pie for a big chocolate cake

Cake is for gays, pie rules all.

[Snoogans]

Cake is for gays, pie rules all.

is there not one person who properly knows how to eat on this board?

[epo]

is there not one person who properly knows how to eat on this board?

What about vanilla cake with vanilla frosting?

[TheMojoPin]

is there not one person who properly knows how to eat on this board?

You would pick a cake over a pie?!?

Your tips mean nothing now.

[epo]

Yeah, a guy that young, cheap, would obviously be at least one of the abolute best defensive CFers in baseball and who has just gotten better with each level of the minors has zero value.

Even Ned Colletti thinks epo would be a shitty GM.

Let me ask you a question: If Felix Pie was so "great" then why did the Cubs acquire Milton Bradley, Reed Johnson, Kosuke Fukodome and Alfonso Soriano while he was their #1 prospect?

[Snoogans]

You would pick a cake over a pie?!?

Your tips mean nothing now.

buy is gross and usually filled with awful fruit. Cake is CHOCOLATE with cake. Way better then fruit

[TheMojoPin]

Let me ask you a question: If Felix Pie was so "great" then why did the Cubs acquire Milton Bradley, Reed Johnson, Kosuke Fukodome and Alfonso Soriano while he was their #1 prospect?

Because Hendry is an idiot and shit the bed in previous years. He's always playing catchup and ends up having to get what the market has to offer. A team this solid can easily afford to have a prospect out there playing, but Hendry and co. insisted on filling CF and tolerating far worse players like Ryan Theriot at SS. The Cubs are AWFUL at developing anything besides pitchers. They have zero patience to let enough of their young players with true potential play. Unless they bust out of the gate, they get relegated to the bench or back to the minors.

[Knowledged_one]

Not sure i understand the deal from an o's fan point of view unless they are moving adam jones to left and are going to either trade luke scott or make him the dh. I will say that is a strong defensive of with pie, jones and markakis ( who is about to sign a six year extension)

[TheMojoPin]

Pending approval from MLB and the owners, it looks like the Ricketts family has emerged as the new owners of the Chicago Cubs. (http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2009/01/ricketts-family-is-high-bidder-for-cubs-900m.html)

The deal would represent a return to family ownership for the Cubs. Before Tribune took control of the team in 1981, the Wrigley family, founders of the chewing-gum company, owned the Cubs for 65 years. The clan sold the team and Wrigley Field to the media company, which owns the Chicago Tribune, for $20.5 million.

In Chicago, the Ricketts family is hardly as well known as the Wrigleys, or any of the current owners of the city's major professional sports franchises, but certainly that would change quickly for the new custodians of one of the country's best-known teams, as well as one of its most storied stadiums. Along with the Cubs, the Ricketts are buying Wrigley Field, and a 25 percent stake in a regional cable sports network.

The family patriarch, J. Joe Ricketts, grew up in Omaha and started a discount stock brokerage. In the 1990s he transformed the company into an Internet trading powerhouse now known as TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. He is ranked among the world's billionaires, according to Forbes magazine, with an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion. Shares of the company are also owned by his wife and four children.

The family's pursuit of the Cubs was led by Tom Ricketts, 43, the second-oldest child. An investment banker, he resides in Wilmette with his wife and five children. Two of his siblings also live in the Chicago area.

The Ricketts family would control one of baseball's most popular franchises, despite the team not having won the World Series since 1908. The team draws more than 3 million fans to an aging ballpark that is beloved for its charm but lacks modern stadium amenities. Forbes estimated the team's value at $642 million last year, fifth highest in baseball.

Out of the 3 final bidders, he was the one that seemed best, so I am pleased.

[Hottub]

Ricketts close the deal.
Maybe He will start pulling a few Steinbrenners and try to buy a pennant.:blink:
Should be an exciting time for Cub's fans.

[TheMojoPin]

Ricketts close the deal.
Maybe He will start pulling a few Steinbrenners and try to buy a pennant.:blink:
Should be an exciting time for Cub's fans.

Fingers crossed. So far the family members involved are saying the right things and sound like real fans of the team.

I know inflation plays a huge part in it, but I can't wrap my head around how the Tribune bought the team for about $20 million less than 30 years ago and now sells it for around $900 million.

[spadanko]

According to ESPN Radio's Bruce Levine, the Cubs are close to acquiring pitcher Aaron Heilman from the Mariners. The Ms want shortstop Ronny Cedeno and pitching in return. Heilman was dealt to Seattle in the J.J. Putz trade earlier this winter. Earlier this month, Ken Rosenthal mentioned that the Mariners were likely willing to trade Heilman, "who they did not consider a key component of the Putz trade."

Heilman, 30, is set to earn $1.625MM in '09. He'll be eligible for free agency after the 2010 season.

Levine also mentioned that three teams are interested in out-of-options Cubs hurler Rich Hill

[IMSlacker]

ugh.

[cougarjake13]

have fun cubbies fans




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[epo]

So it was Heilman for Ronny Cedeno and Garrett Olson?

My only concern for the Cubs would be dealing with Seattle GM Jack Zduriencik as is the old scouting director for Milwaukee....and has quite an eye for talent.

Otherwise...fuck it....you got another bullpen arm.

[TheMojoPin]

This offseason sucks some serious cock.

Trading Pie and Cedeno like they did is just another fuck-up. Two guys with value they could have gotten good return for if they traded them last year or the year before, but they wait until they're out of options and teams know they basically have to move them.

[IMSlacker]

This offseason sucks some serious cock.

Trading Pie and Cedeno like they did is just another fuck-up. Two guys with value they could have gotten good return for if they traded them last year or the year before, but they wait until they're out of options and teams know they basically have to move them.

And Rich Hill is next. Depressing.

On a brighter note, the Cubs have signed Paul Bako to a one year contract (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090130&content_id=3786294&vkey=pr_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc). The final piece of the puzzle is in place. World Series, here we come!

[Kevin]

buy is gross and usually filled with awful fruit. Cake is CHOCOLATE with cake. Way better then fruit



Nice Kevin moment there, Snoogs.

[TheMojoPin]

And Rich Hill is next. Depressing.

On a brighter note, the Cubs have signed Paul Bako to a one year contract (http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090130&content_id=3786294&vkey=pr_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc). The final piece of the puzzle is in place. World Series, here we come!

Outside of the Bradley signing, this offseason gets a gigantic F. I know things were thrown out of whack by the selling of the team and apparently the economy given how screwy the FA signings are this year, but come on, Hendry. The already iffy bench has been noticeably downgraded, the loss of DeRosa for 3 meh pitching prospects plus Bradley being likely to only start 100 games or less makes this next year already looking like a wasted opportunity. The core of this team isn't young and they probably only have this upcoming season and the next where they're the likely favorites to win the division and before they have to start doing some serious shuffling and retooling.

And Bako? Why?!? Blanco served the backup role far better than Bako has in recent years, plus Bako is like 37.

Hendry needs to go.

[TheMojoPin]

On a lighter note, I have no idea who this guy is, but the headline made me laugh:

Cubs cause Bonnar pain that never heals (http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/story.html?id=1234634)

They certainly do.

[IMSlacker]

And Bako? Why?!? Blanco served the backup role far better than Bako has in recent years, plus Bako is like 37.

Because he bats left-handed. I think that was the only criteria that mattered. They decided that the line-up was too right-handed last year and the entire off season has been geared toward getting more left-handed, regardless of talent level, it seems.

[TheMojoPin]

Because he bats left-handed. I think that was the only criteria that mattered. They decided that the line-up was too right-handed last year and the entire off season has been geared toward getting more left-handed, regardless of talent level, it seems.

Apparently, since most of the lefties are ass besides Bradley. That said, I think Fontenot is gonna continue his success as he gets more AB's, so that'll be a welcome lefty "addition," and if Fukudome can just become a serviceable hitter for an extended period of time, that gives them 3 solid starting lefty bats.