Stoppable force meets movable object in this series between the Cubs and Astros. Both teams are throwing two starters in this series who probably don’t belong in a MLB rotation, but their pathetic offenses should struggle to score runs anyway. If any of you are in the Chicago area and don’t have tickets to the game, let “Aneury Rodriguez! Rodrigo Lopez! COME SEE THE CUBS AND ASTROS BATTLE FOR FIFTH PLACE!” convince you.
Team Overview
Here are the team-wide stats, with NL rank in parens
| Astros | Cubs | |
| wOBA | .307(10th) | .325 (4th) |
| UBR | -3.6 (15th) | -7.3 (16th) |
| UZR | -19.5 (16th) | -12.1 (14th) |
| DRS | -27 (14th) | -37 (16th) |
| SP FIP | 4.40 (15th) | 4.05 (11th) |
| RP FIP | 3.99 (15th) | 3.87 (12th) |
The Cubs are well separated as the worst baserunning team in the majors. I’m a little surprised that the Astros are so low in that category – the rest of the team must be Cubs-level bad to make up for Michael Bourn.
Batters
| Player | wOBA | ZiPS wOBA |
| CF Michael Bourn | .327 | .321 |
| SS Clint Barmes | .302 | .296 |
| RF Hunter Pence | .363 | .347 |
| LF Cub Killer Carlos Lee | .287 | .327 |
| 1B Brett Wallace | .366 | .330 |
| 3B Chris Johnson | .262 | .310 |
| 2B Bill Hall | .271 | .303 |
| C J. R. Towles | .283 | .306 |
The Astros are missing C Humberto Quintero and more importantly top prospect C Jason Castro to injuries.
Pitchers
| Player | FIP | ZiPS FIP |
| RHP Brett Myers | 5.29 | 4.01 |
| LHP J.A. Happ | 4.67 | 4.34 |
| RHP Bud Norris | 3.64 | 3.74 |
| RHP Aneury Rodriguez | 4.98 | 4.81 |
| RHP Jordan Lyles | - | - |
| RHP Mark Melancon | 2.67 | 3.64 |
W-Rod is out with a fluid buildup in his elbow. Too bad for the Astros, he always seems to own the Cubs. The Astros hittable closer, Brandon Lyon, is out with a rotator cuff tear and could be back in the next few weeks.
Pitching Matchups
Monday: Aneury Rodriguez. RHP (4.98, 4.98, 4.56, 4.81) vs Rodrigo Lopez, RHP (-,-) 1:20 PM CT, WGN
Is there another Aneury Rodriguez out there? I could have sworn this guy pitched for Arizona. I can’t find another guy with the same first name in B-Ref or fangraphs. It’s one you don’t forget. Am I going crazy here? Rodriguez has started five games for Houston, and to his credit has managed to go at least five innings in all of them. He’s given up a ton of fly balls (only 25% grounders) so not surprisingly he’s given up a lot of HRs. It looks like he throws a simple fastball-slider-change combo.
Lopez had two good years with the Orioles in 2002 and 2004 and has bounced around as a fringy break-glass-in-case-of-emergency pitcher since he left the Charm City. He’s been pitching in the Braves org this sesaon and has actually put up decent numbers against AAA players. There’s no projection available but I think he’ll probably be as “good” as the rest of the guys the Cubs have been trotting out in the 5th starter spot.
Tuesday: Jordan Lyles, RHP (-) vs Carlos Zambrano, RHP (4.59, 3.70, 4.24, 3.62), 7:05 PM CT, CSC
Lyles is the top prospect in the bare cupboard that is the Astros farm system. He’s only 20 years old and made it to AAA last year at the age of 19. He has a fastball-curveball-change pitch mix and has decent control. Judging from his minor league HR rates I’m guessing he’s a groundball pitcher, though those rates tend to be higher in the minors. For some reason fangraphs has him pitching in the Rangers system this year.
MB and I have been harping on the dual issues of Z’s big decline in strikeouts and his big decline in groundballs. I’m not sure which is worse for a pitcher like Z. Worm killing has always been a big part of his game, and surprisingly he posted consistently low BABIPs during the peak of his career despite it. Z has done well at keeping all those extra fly balls in the yard, relatively speaking, but has been a victim of the big inning.
Wednesday: Brett Myers, RHP (5.11, 5.29, 4.21, 4.01) vs Doug Davis, LHP (6.75, 3.59, 5.04, 4.12), 1:20 PM CT, WGN
Myers and Wandy were supposed to be the key players for this year’s squad but Wandy was hurt and Myers has put up lousy numbers. A big part of those numbers is simple bad luck on HRs, though he has also seen performance drops on his K rate and BB rate. Much like Rodriguez he’s giving up a lot more fly balls this year.
In his last start, Davis walked six Pirates in 4 2/3 innings, giving up 4 runs (2 earned). That’s about what you can expect from him at this point.
Prediction
Cubs take two out of three, but given what a mess this team is right now I could see even the Astros threatening to sweep them.
Aneury Rodriguez bedshitting –> Aneurysm
/recycled joke.
I think I want to see DJ get reps at 2B to give Barney a break. Barney can also slide over to SS to give Castro a break. Make this happen.
http://www.insidethebook.com/ee/index.php/site/article/best_experience_at_an_mlb_park_according_to_yelp_readers/
People really hated the Metrodome
If he bulks up and maintains his hitting prowess (as emphasized in those scouting reports) would you think his upside might be Jeff Kent? Or maybe I’m just being way too optimistic to make up for my initial reaction of “meh”.
Jeff Stevens——->DFA as part of the LeMahieu move
Lopez projections: http://www.fangraphs.com/fanpdetails.aspx?playerid=150&position=P
[quote name=Rice Cube]If he bulks up and maintains his hitting prowess (as emphasized in those scouting reports) would you think his upside might be Jeff Kent? Or maybe I’m just being way too optimistic to make up for my initial reaction of “meh”.[/quote]I highly doubt he has the potential to be Jeff Kent. Kent was one of the best hitting 2nd basemen ever. He won’t have that kind of power, but I was thinking 10-15 per season is within reach if he adds some weight.
The masses will be happy the predictions are back with the series previews. I caught shit for not including that and I’m forever sorry.
In the eastern sky up-buoying,
The sorrowful vast phantom moves illumin’d,
(’Tis some mother’s large transparent face,
In heaven brighter growing.)
O strong dead-march you please me!
O moon immense with your silvery face you soothe me!
O my soldiers twain! O my veterans passing to burial!
What I have I also give you. The moon gives you light,
And the bugles and the drums give you music,
And my heart, O my soldiers, my veterans,
My heart gives you love.
~Walt Whitman
[quote name=mb21]The masses will be happy the predictions are back with the series previews. I caught shit for not including that and I’m forever sorry.[/quote]BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
[quote name=Berselius]Jeff Stevens——->DFA as part of the LeMahieu move[/quote]Hmmmm…so why the initial report of a DL stint?
Jeff BAKER is headed to the DL. Jeff STEVENS, reliever, has been DFA’d. Stevens was acquired when the Cubs traded God after the 2008 season.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO[/quote]I already booed myself to sleep.
The ‘stros and rangers swapped aaa affiliates. Fangraphs must have missed the memo.
[quote name=mb21]Jeff BAKER is headed to the DL. Jeff STEVENS, reliever, has been DFA’d. Stevens was acquired when the Cubs traded God after the 2008 season.[/quote]I’ll go ahead and cross “dinner” off my list of things to do tonight.
[quote name=GW]The ‘stros and rangers swapped aaa affiliates. Fangraphs must have missed the memo.[/quote]Cistulli was too busy penning a 5,000 word ode to how Dusty Baker’s lineup strategy is similar to French postmodern literature. He’s really having trouble figuring out to work in a Hold Steady reference, though, and he’s got make sure and edit his Wikipedia page before the holiday is over.
[quote name=mb21]Jeff BAKER is headed to the DL. Jeff STEVENS, reliever, has been DFA’d. Stevens was acquired when the Cubs traded God after the 2008 season.[/quote]Many Bothans died providing us this information.
[quote name=GBTS]Many Bothans died providing us this information.[/quote]
so DJ can’t take a walk either. Sigh
Anyways, the Cubs sweep. Book it!
I thought the Cubs would sweep the Pirates. I’m going to predict the Astros sweep the Cubs. For that matter, I predict the Cubs lose every game the rest of the season. Done deal. Sealed.
The Cubs could potentially have 5 players who are all average hitters by the end of the season if LeMahieu plays much at all. Castro, Barney, Byrd, Baker and LeMahieu. Add in Campana and Aramis Ramirez at this point in his career. The Cubs will have a lineup of singles hitters. (dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]The Cubs could potentially have 5 players who are all average hitters by the end of the season if LeMahieu plays much at all. Castro, Barney, Byrd, Baker and LeMahieu. Add in Campana and Aramis Ramirez at this point in his career. The Cubs will have a lineup of singles hitters. (dying laughing)[/quote]If they all played 2B, Hendry would have realized his true vision. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Cistulli was too busy penning a 5,000 word ode to how Dusty Baker’s lineup strategy is similar to French postmodern literature. He’s really having trouble figuring out to work in a Hold Steady reference, though, and he’s got make sure and edit his Wikipedia page before the holiday is over.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
RC posted this link in the Memorial Day thread: http://www.platoonadvantage.com/2011/05/re-post-memory.html#more
[quote name=dylanj]so DJ can’t take a walk either. Sigh
Anyways, the Cubs sweep. Book it![/quote]
Booked.
You know, Hendry’s getting damn close to the all-2B lineup he tried to field in 2006:
Baker
DeWitt
Barney
LeMahieu
He’s got 4 of them on the roster, and it’s not even June. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]If they all played 2B, Hendry would have realized his true vision. (dying laughing)[/quote]At least that would be more entertaining than this shit.
[quote name=mb21]The Cubs could potentially have 5 players who are all average hitters by the end of the season if LeMahieu plays much at all. Castro, Barney, Byrd, Baker and LeMahieu. Add in Campana and Aramis Ramirez at this point in his career. The Cubs will have a lineup of singles hitters. (dying laughing)[/quote]
Maybe if Campana changes the baseball card between his bicycle spokes he might start hitting for power.
I’m going to predict that Quade’s nickname for Lemahieu is DJy.
I’m disappointed berselius didn’t work Zamby into his preview.
[quote name=mb21]I’m going to predict that Quade’s nickname for Lemahieu is DJy.[/quote]
I think it will be Deej
Wind is blowing out today. Chris Johnson just hit the Toyota sign in BP
Why does Tony Campana wear the same size hat as Kevin Mench?
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Why does Tony Campana wear the same size hat as Kevin Mench?[/quote]
And the same jersey size as Henry Rowengartnder
I really don’t want to see LeMahieu take at bats away from Castro or Barney. If they need a day off fine. I’m willing to bet LeMahieu is only here until Baker comes back from the 15 day DL anyway.
[quote name=Berselius]Wind is blowing out today. Chris Johnson just hit the Toyota sign in BP[/quote]Not good news for Lopey and Sote. Maybe they should just have Jeffy and Russy start warming up in the firsty inningy.
[quote name=Berselius]And the same jersey size as Henry Rowengartnder[/quote]I’ve just had an epiphany: Tony Campana is New Jersey (dying laughing)
ive figured out Wilken & Hendry’s plan. Build a badass bench first and then get a real team. Think about it, Campana, LeSpellcheck & Barney would all be great roleplayers on a contending team.
Now we just wait for 8 position players who can actually hit and its all gravy.
[quote name=Berselius]Wind is blowing out today. Chrissy just hit the Toyota sign in BP[/quote].
[quote name=dylanj]ive figured out Wilken & Hendry’s plan. Build a badass bench first and then get a real team. Think about it, Campana, LeSpellcheck & Barney would all be great roleplayers on a contending team.
Now we just wait for 8 position players who can actually hit and its all gravy.[/quote]Brilliant!
[quote name=dylanj]ive figured out Wilken & Hendry’s plan. Build a badass bench first and then get a real team. Think about it, Campana, LeSpellcheck & Barney would all be great roleplayers on a contending team.
Now we just wait for 8 position players who can actually hit and its all gravy.[/quote]It just might work
[quote name=Berselius]It just might work[/quote]Let’s See What Happens.
[quote name=dylanj]ive figured out Wilken & Hendry’s plan. Build a badass bench first and then get a real team. Think about it, Campana, LeSpellcheck & Barney would all be great roleplayers on a contending team.
Now we just wait for 8 position players who can actually hit and its all gravy.[/quote]The best part about this plan, is that by the time the Cubs can contend again, these guys will be hitting their arb years and will be too expensive to play a bench role. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]The best part about this plan, is that by the time the Cubs can contend again, these guys will be hitting their arb years and will be too expensive to play a bench role. (dying laughing)[/quote]
Just think of all the trade value they will have accrued though.
[quote name=Berselius]Just think of all the trade value they will have accrued though.[/quote]Yeah, the windfall of middle relievers will be a real boon.
pieces the Cubs actually will have
1. An above average SS- Castro
2. An above average CF- Jackson
3. An above average C- Soto
4. Lights out closer- Marmol
5. Great setup man- Marshall
6. Quality SP- Garza
now we just need a 2B, 3B, LF, RF 4 SP and that WS is ours
[quote name=dylanj]pieces the Cubs actually will have
1. An above average SS- Castro
2. An above average CF- Jackson
3. An above average C- Soto
4. Lights out closer- Marmol
5. Great setup man- Marshall
6. Quality SP- Garza
now we just need a 2B, 3B, LF, RF 4 SP and that WS is ours[/quote]Everything’s coming up Milhouse for the Cubs!
[quote name=Berselius]Wind is blowing out today. Chris Johnson just hit the Toyota sign in BP[/quote]
Did it fall down?
[quote name=Rice Cube]Did it fall down?[/quote]
http://www.didthetoyotasignatwrigleyfieldfalldown.com
[quote name=Rice Cube]Did it fall down?[/quote]No. It’s been firmly cemented in by the fine layer of urine, vomit, and stale beer that coats the bleachers.
[quote name=dylanj]pieces the Cubs actually will have
1. An above average SS- Castro
2. An above average CF- Jackson
3. An above average C- Soto
4. Lights out closer- Marmol
5. Great setup man- Marshall
6. Quality SP- Garza
now we just need a 2B, 3B, LF, RF 4 SP and that WS is ours[/quote]
Relevant part is at 0:45…
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]No. It’s been firmly cemented in by the fine layer of urine, vomit, and stale beer that coats the bleachers.[/quote]
Shit. I wanted it to go away. They can replace it with a Jumbotron if they want an ugly sign in the outfield.
Len and Bob broadcasting from free bleacher seats today, insulting the Cubs best customers.
Speaking of Wrigley:
http://fivethirtyeight.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/29/ranking-baseballs-best-ballparks/
#10
[quote name=Rice Cube]Speaking of Wrigley:
http://fivethirtyeight.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/05/29/ranking-baseballs-best-ballparks/
#10[/quote]There’s not a chance in hell that the crumbling, urine soaked relic at Clark and Addison is better ballpark than any of these parks ranked below it:
Kaufmann
GAB
Rangers Ballpark
Progressive Field
New Yankee Stadium
I was very glad to see AT&T Park ranked #3. I was also surprised that PNC was ranked #1, but it is a very nice park.
[quote name=dylanj]pieces the Cubs actually will have
1. An above average SS- Castro
2. An above average CF- Jackson
3. An above average C- Soto
4. Lights out closer- Marmol
5. Great setup man- Marshall
6. Quality SP- Garza
now we just need a 2B, 3B, LF, RF 4 SP and that WS is ours[/quote]I’d actually say the Cubs have really good players at SS, CF and C with an average player at 2nd. I don’t think they’re as bad as you make it sound. At least not right now. The question is more about how good can they be in the future. By the time the Cubs can be legitimate contenders, the roster is going to be significantly different from what it is right now. In all likelihood Garza, Z and Dempster will be gone. So will Soto, Marshall and more than likely Marmol. Same goes for Soriano and obviously Fukudome and Ramirez.
Castro will be 25 or 26 years old and making a lot of money. Brett Jackson will be in his prime. That’s two really good players to build around for the future. The thing is, that’s not what they will do. They’ll try to build around Garza, Marmol, Marshall and Soto. They’ll throw money at other free agents only prolonging how long they’re not going to be contenders.
THIS.
ccd said it a logn time ago, but it bears repeating: for those of us who were around for the mid-late-90′s era Cubs, we’re about to see the same thing. I fully expect a Candy Maldonado type signing this offseason. (dying laughing)
I was surprised to see GAB ranked as low as it is. In my opinion it’s up there with PNC and AT&T. Being in Topeka I have to fly if I want to see any team other than the Royals. If someone gave me money to go wherever I wanted I’d probably go to Yankee Stadium, but if I’m paying for it, I’ll go to Cincy or Pittsburgh. Tickets are cheap, the ballpark is awesome, it’s easy to get to either one and easy to get out of, too.
[quote name=mb21]They’ll throw money at other free agents only prolonging how long they’re not going to be contenders.[/quote]
Well…fuck.
I’m reasonably certain that you can get decent seats in AT&T Park for the same price you’d pay for a bleachers seat in Wrigley Field. Plus the value is better. I haven’t been since 2002, though.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]THIS.
ccd said it a logn time ago, but it bears repeating: for those of us who were around for the mid-late-90′s era Cubs, we’re about to see the same thing. I fully expect a Candy Maldonado type signing this offseason. (dying laughing)[/quote]You think about the recent Cubs teams that have contended and it’s been a little bit of luck and a lot of money being spent. I go back to 1998 when I think about the Cubs turning the so-called corner. They did it on the back of Sammy Sosa (dude had 100 RBI more than the guy on the team with the 2nd most RBI) and got some help from Kerry Wood. Wood was injured for 1999 and part of 2000. The team contended in 2001 (Sosa and Wood again). Then in 2003 they got a little lucky. The division sucked, the Cubs found themselves close enough to .500 around the deadline to make a big trade. I think they were 51-54 when they traded for Ramirez and Lofton. Mark Prior! Carlos Zambrano!
The Cubs got lucky and developed several players that helped the team contend several times. Spending money helped, but the cheap production they got from Wood and later Prior and Zambrano were huge for this franchise.
I think we’ll see the Cubs return to that kind of baseball. They’ll have to get lucky. They need a shitty division, cheap and productive players, a well timed trade, etc. The Cubs aren’t going to build an organization that makes any other team enviable so they have to do it the hard way. They’ve done it that way my entire life. Don’t know why I was expecting anything else.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’m reasonably certain that you can get decent seats in AT&T Park for the same price you’d pay for a bleachers seat in Wrigley Field. Plus the value is better. I haven’t been since 2002, though.[/quote]I’m sure you can, but I like the other two parks better.
Junior Lake==> AA
Ha===> A
BJax===> Off DL
Whitenack===>DL
Clevenger===>AA
Struck===> AA
Why did Ha go back to A ball? Fleita said he was going to stick around AA after Jackson came off the DL.
I think it’s a good decision, which is nice to see for a change. I’m not complaining. Just wondering what changed their mind in a matter of a couple days.
MLB takes the opportunity, in honor of Memorial Day, to market a hat that looks absolutely god awful with the team uniform.
I don’t understand those hats, melissa. Never have. They look stupid.
miles
[quote name=mb21]Why did Ha go back to A ball? Fleita said he was going to stick around AA after Jackson came off the DL.
I think it’s a good decision, which is nice to see for a change. I’m not complaining. Just wondering what changed their mind in a matter of a couple days.[/quote]my guess is they needed another infielder after DJ got called up and it was a numbers game
/equivalented
it would have been so cubs for the eagle to lose control and slash the shit out of castros arm..
Have yall seen this?
[quote name=bubblesdachimp]Have yall seen this?[/quote]
http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/05/30/john-danks-says-jose-bautista-was-acting-like-a-clown
I really wish jose bautista played for the cubs
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]
[/quote]
(dying laughing)
[quote name=mb21]I don’t understand those hats, melissa. Never have. They look stupid.[/quote]
MLB is claiming that 100% of proceeds for stars and stripe caps are going to Welcome Back Veterans. I guess that’s admirable but they still look like they are wearing a cheap trucker’s hat.
[quote name=Horny Goat](dying laughing)[/quote]
I’ve been looking at that off and on for the past half hour and I have to wonder…
Is that pee? Or a beer spill?
[quote name=melissa]Len and Bob broadcasting from free bleacher seats today, insulting the Cubs best customers.[/quote]
I forgot about that. must-see TV.
who the hell is Lemahieu?? I need to get on the internet more.
[quote name=melissa]MLB is claiming that 100% of proceeds for stars and stripe caps are going to Welcome Back Veterans. I guess that’s admirable but they still look like they are wearing a cheap trucker’s hat.[/quote]
If nobody buys the hat, 100% of 0 is still 0
[quote name=melissa]MLB is claiming that 100% of proceeds for stars and stripe caps are going to Welcome Back Veterans. I guess that’s admirable but they still look like they are wearing a cheap trucker’s hat.[/quote]
They could probably make more money for Vets by selling these,
[quote name=mb21]You think about the recent Cubs teams that have contended and it’s been a little bit of luck and a lot of money being spent. I go back to 1998 when I think about the Cubs turning the so-called corner. They did it on the back of Sammy Sosa (dude had 100 RBI more than the guy on the team with the 2nd most RBI) and got some help from Kerry Wood. Wood was injured for 1999 and part of 2000. The team contended in 2001 (Sosa and Wood again). Then in 2003 they got a little lucky. The division sucked, the Cubs found themselves close enough to .500 around the deadline to make a big trade. I think they were 51-54 when they traded for Ramirez and Lofton. Mark Prior! Carlos Zambrano!
The Cubs got lucky and developed several players that helped the team contend several times. Spending money helped, but the cheap production they got from Wood and later Prior and Zambrano were huge for this franchise.
I think we’ll see the Cubs return to that kind of baseball. They’ll have to get lucky. They need a shitty division, cheap and productive players, a well timed trade, etc. The Cubs aren’t going to build an organization that makes any other team enviable so they have to do it the hard way. They’ve done it that way my entire life. Don’t know why I was expecting anything else.[/quote]Yep. Ricketts talks a lot of shit about building an org, but everything he’s done so far/allowed to be done so far points in the opposite direction. It’s “build a club that can win 82 games and hope for some luck,” i.e. “Let’s See What Happens”
For you college football fags: Tressel just resigned as OSU coach.
there goes the no-no
I hope everyone was paying attention to the eagle landing on the mound because that may be the most entertaining moment of today’s game.
[quote name=Rice Cube]I’ve been looking at that off and on for the past half hour and I have to wonder…
Is that pee? Or a beer spill?[/quote]I don’t profess to be an expert on female anatomy, but unless I’m wrong, it’s almost impossible for that to be PITP incident. (dying laughing)
[quote name=melissa]MLB is claiming that 100% of proceeds for stars and stripe caps are going to Welcome Back Veterans. I guess that’s admirable but they still look like they are wearing a cheap trucker’s hat.[/quote]
I’ve noticed a trend of white caps for special occasions lately. I think the 9/11 caps are also supposed to be white.
[quote name=melissa]I hope everyone was paying attention to the eagle landing on the mound because that may be the most entertaining moment of today’s game.[/quote]
I didn’t think it was going to make it but silly me, they always do.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I don’t profess to be an expert on female anatomy, but unless I’m wrong, it’s almost impossible for that to be PITP incident. (dying laughing)[/quote]
(dying laughing)
It’s like she’s admiring it.
Hey, a strikeout!
[quote name=Rice Cube]For you college football fags: Tressel just resigned as OSU coach.[/quote]
old news already, RC (dying laughing)
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’ve noticed a trend of white caps for special occasions lately. I think the 9/11 caps are also supposed to be white.[/quote]
All white would be better than these gaudy red billed and bodied caps. Should at least use blue for Cubs or appropriate team colors for each individual team.
[quote name=Horny Goat]old news already, RC (dying laughing)[/quote]
I don’t follow the Big Ten as much as you do. I am eating lunch but will be sure to not eat dinner.
There goes the shutout.
[quote name=melissa]All white would be better than these gaudy red billed and bodied caps. Should at least use blue for Cubs or appropriate team colors for each individual team.[/quote]
agreed
Tom Ticketts will join Len and Bob out there at some point. Maybe Yellon too, if we’re lucky (dying laughing)
They did have the white caps with the stars/stripes pattern on the team logo.
Was that smart by Campana? I thought he got there though, that was a nice effort.
what up, Campana?
[quote name=Berselius]I think it will be Deej[/quote]Huey
[quote name=melissa]MLB is claiming that 100% of proceeds for stars and stripe caps are going to Welcome Back Veterans. I guess that’s admirable but they still look like they are wearing a cheap trucker’s hat.[/quote]
The navy blue ones from 2008 actually looked pretty sharp. Even the hideous fire-engine red ones from 2009 look decent compared to last year’s and this year’s models.
Lots of empty bleacher seats in left field. Glad the Cubs didn’t offer tickets at a reduced rate so that their best customers have plenty of room to stretch their shit out.
[quote name=Perkins]The navy blue ones from 2008 actually looked pretty sharp. Even the hideous fire-engine red ones from 2009 look decent compared to last year’s and this year’s models.[/quote]
I thought the Navy caps looked nice too, this latest incarnation is not a good look. If they are doing it as a fund raiser I would think they’d try to have a hat that was aesthetically pleasing.
[quote name=melissa]Lots of empty bleacher seats in left field. Glad the Cubs didn’t offer tickets at a reduced rate so that their best customers have plenty of room to stretch their shit out.[/quote]The reason nobody is showing up is that you could pay $25 to watch this team from behind home plate 6-8 weeks ago. They played in Des Moines.
[quote name=melissa]Lots of empty bleacher seats in left field. Glad the Cubs didn’t offer tickets at a reduced rate so that their best customers have plenty of room to puke on themselves and pass out.[/quote]Macchione’d
Cubs new marketing slogan:
Come to the bleachers and stretch your shit out, there’s a good chance you won’t even get puked on!
Darwinning
That was a fun triple.
[quote name=mb21]The reason nobody is showing up is that you could pay $25 to watch this team from behind home plate 6-8 weeks ago. They played in Des Moines.[/quote]
(dying laughing)
[quote name=melissa]I thought the Navy caps looked nice too, this latest incarnation is not a good look. If they are doing it as a fund raiser I would think they’d try to have a hat that was aesthetically pleasing.[/quote]Yeah I wish they had just sruck with the navy caps. I suppose they wouldn’t make as much money that way, but it would look a whole lot less NASCAR.
Too bad the Cubs scoring threat ends after Barney and Castro bat. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Macchione’d[/quote]
Ooooh, Castro was safe! Thought he got the tag down, but I’ll take it.
Nice steal by Starlin. That was even a good throw that he beat
More average speed on display.
PEEEEEEENYA!
Peenya!!
Wow. Pena fucked that ball up.
Summer is here
pena!
PENA! He’s really coming on strong of late.
Cubs better keep scoring. No way Lopey gives up less than 6 runs today. (dying laughing)
Adolfo swung at balls 3 and 4.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Adolfo swung at balls 3 and 4.[/quote]
He wuz robbed.
Soriano grabbing front of his thigh and limping after hitting bag at first. Hope he’s just faking to compensate for his lazy running.
soriano needs to go.
[quote name=melissa]Soriano grabbing front of his thigh and limping after hitting bag at first. Hope he’s just faking to compensate for his lazy running.[/quote]BRAD FUCKING SNYDER Time! Whoooooo!!!! CUBBBIIIIEZZZZZZ!
[quote name=melissa]Soriano grabbing front of his thigh and limping after hitting bag at first. Hope he’s just faking to compensate for his lazy running.[/quote]
Lazy injury.
[quote name=dylanj]soriano needs to go.[/quote]His legs are just completely gone.
(dying laughing), I was off on my prediction of which cub would be injured today
Soriano hurt his quad now. jesus
It’s Blake DeWitt time in left.
Fuck the Triangle Building. Build a god damn hospital instead. Jesus Christ. This is ridiculous.
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]BRAD FUCKING SNYDER Time! Whoooooo!!!! CUBBBIIIIEZZZZZZ![/quote]
If by that you meant Blake DeWitt, then correct.
how the fuck is Snyder not in? Does Quade not realize he is sitting on a goldmine of pure power & sexual intensity?
[quote name=mb21]Fuck the Triangle Building. Build a god damn hospital instead. Jesus Christ. This is ridiculous.[/quote]
They’re going to call it the Triage building instead.
[quote name=dylanj]soriano needs to go.[/quote]This team wouldn’t be any worse if he did.
[quote name=dylanj]how the fuck is Snyder not in? Does Quade not realize he is sitting on a goldmine of pure power & sexual intensity?[/quote]
(dying laughing)
[quote name=melissa]They’re going to call it the Triage building instead.[/quote]
(dying laughing), melissa wins the internet
[quote name=mb21]Fuck the Triangle Building. Build a god damn hospital instead. Jesus Christ. This is ridiculous.[/quote]
and make it 12 stories high
the sad truth is i would rather watch Brad Fucking Snyder than Soriano. I defended Soriano for years but im done. He needs to go away
there is former rookie of the year JR Towles
[quote name=dylanj]how the fuck is Snyder not in? Does Quade not realize he is sitting on a goldmine of pure power & sexual intensity?[/quote]He’s trying to think up a nickname. Brady? Sny? Snydes? Snydey?
[quote name=melissa]It’s Blake DeWitt time in left.[/quote]Mike Quade is a fucking stupid fuck. Why even call up kids if Quade going to play MIF in LF?
Mike Quade is entirely out of his depth. Lost. In. The. Sauce.
(dying laughing) Castro looked in his glove like, “what, it’s here, really, I’ll throw it to first.” (dying laughing)
Has anyone heard anything about Jim Tressel today?
[quote name=mb21]He’s trying to think up a nickname. Brady? Sny? Snydes? Snydey?[/quote]
You forgot Fucky
is Brett Jackson healthy now? It’s time to come up if he is.
jackson is back in action tonight in AA
[quote name=GW]Has anyone heard anything about Jim Tressel today?[/quote]He resigned and that program is going down to stay down.
[quote name=Horny Goat]is Brett Jackson healthy now? It’s time to come up if he is.[/quote]Won’t matter. Quade won’t play him until he’s run out of 2B to try in the OF.
[quote name=GW]Has anyone heard anything about Jim Tressel today?[/quote]
working on a new book
[quote name=Horny Goat]working on a new book[/quote](dying laughing)
jesus christ that guy is fast
Campana has a Soriano-esque appreciation for the strike zone.
Campana is like a roadrunner.
Speedy little fucker.
(dying laughing) @ that stolen base
Campana gets out of the box and up to full speed in like 0.8 seconds.
Soriano’s legs were healthier than the past few years until today, right? I actually thought he would end up having a decent year with HRs and they could possibly get some AL team to pay $5M/year for the rest of his contract. that’s what pisses me off.
Well that was a weak strikeout.
camphetamines
Soto looked lost there
Sote with a ugly one.
can any of you remember a cub who had more speed than Campana?
[quote name=dylanj]the sad truth is i would rather watch Brad Fucking Snyder than Soriano. I defended Soriano for years but im done. He needs to go away[/quote]In the past Soriano was one of the three best outfielders in the organization. That’s no longer even close to true now. I don’t think he’s the 5th or 6th best outfielder in the Cubs organization. The sad truth is that Blake fucking DeWitt is probably a more valuable player in LF than Soriano is. So is Jeff Baker who couldn’t get much playing time after Darwin Barney took control of 2nd base. Campana might be. Brett Jackson certainly.
Balk?!
[quote name=dylanj]can any of you remember a cub who had more speed than Campana?[/quote]Willie Wilson, and maybe Jerome Walton.
[quote name=dylanj]can any of you remember a cub who had more speed than Campana?[/quote]Eric Young could fly, but it took him longer to get to full speed than Campana. I’ve not seen a Cub who can get down the line faster than him. (dying laughing) was close and probably as fast when he was younger, but not in 2006.
I’m actually worried that Bo Pelini will bolt for OSU. as a Neb fan I would hate to see him go. They would prefer Urban Meyer but I think he’s sincere about his heart issues. Not to mention the sanctions coming up.
Willie Wilson is the fastest baseball player I have ever seen. Faster than Campana, at least to naked eye. Wilson was blazing.
i mean that IF single he just got was a routine grounder, it wasnt bobbled, it wasnt a bad throw and he beat it out. crazy
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Willie Wilson, and maybe Jerome Walton.[/quote]Wilson was definitely as fast or faster when he was younger, but I don’t think so by the time he was a Cub.
I doubt there was anyone faster in the history of the game than Wilson at his fastest.
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’m actually worried that Bo Pelini will bolt for OSU. as a Neb fan I would hate to see him go. They would prefer Urban Meyer but I think he’s sincere about his heart issues. Not to mention the sanctions coming up.[/quote]No big-name coach is going to want that job. The NCAA is going to stick it in and break it off.
[quote name=dylanj]can any of you remember a cub who had more speed than Campana?[/quote]
Pagan before his injury? what about the guy who jumped over cars? I forget his name.
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’m actually worried that Bo Pelini will bolt for OSU. as a Neb fan I would hate to see him go. They would prefer Urban Meyer but I think he’s sincere about his heart issues. Not to mention the sanctions coming up.[/quote]I think Meyer is their number 1 choice, but it’s unlikely he’ll take the job, I think Pelini is probably number 2 and in the short-term he may be better off staying put. In the long-term he’d probably be wise to go to OSU.
[quote name=mb21]Wilson was definitely as fast or faster when he was younger, but I don’t think so by the time he was a Cub.
I doubt there was anyone faster in the history of the game than Wilson at his fastest.[/quote]Yeah, in his prime, he had world-class speed. Just breathtaking. Still pretty fast when he got to the Cubs, though.
How dare Kosuke take a walk instead of driving in a run.
we just have to find a way to combine Fukudomes batting eye, Pena’s power, Castro’s contact and Campana’s speed into one player.
Oh wait, we already have BFS
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Willie Wilson is the fastest baseball player I have ever seen. Faster than Campana, at least to naked eye. Wilson was blazing.[/quote]
me and Bill James agree.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Wow.
[quote name=Horny Goat]Pagan before his injury? what about the guy who jumped over cars? I forget his name.[/quote]Pagan was fast, but not as fast as Campana. Gathright is close, though.
(dying laughing)
These teams blow.
[quote name=Horny Goat]Pagan before his injury? what about the guy who jumped over cars? I forget his name.[/quote]Gathright
[quote name=dylanj]we just have to find a way to combine Fukudomes batting eye, Pena’s power, Castro’s contact and Campana’s speed into one player.
Oh wait, we already have BFS[/quote]
His name was Barry Bonds.
These are two truly awful teams.
I feel like this is the type of game where both teams go out for ice cream afterwards.
[quote name=mb21]I think Meyer is their number 1 choice, but it’s unlikely he’ll take the job, I think Pelini is probably number 2 and in the short-term he may be better off staying put. In the long-term he’d probably be wise to go to OSU.[/quote]
A lot of Neb people think Pelini will take the job if offered. We were hoping Tressel would hang on thru the 2011 season but that was just wishful thinking. It might depend on the sanctions, but how bad will they be and how long will the NCAA drag their feet?
Did any of you NCAA fags watch the latest South Park? It was pure brilliance.
DeWitt doesn’t seem markedly faster than pre-injury Soriano in LF by my untrained eye.
I wonder what might happen if Quade were to allow an actual outfielder to play LF?
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]I wonder what might happen if Quade were to allow an actual outfielder to play LF?[/quote]
Nice work by Barmes to pop up a real meatball. (dying laughing)
Ah geez. Poor Soto.
Not sure why Barney couldn’t have caught that throw.
I agree with Bob Brenly. The effort from Barney was meh at best. Unfair error to Soto although the throw was low.
Nice throw by Kosuke.
Quade saw how much we liked when Lou put Sean Marshall in left field and he’s just trying to give us what we want to see. He’s a people pleaser.
great play by fukudome
Great throw by Kosuke to keep the runner at 3rd
[quote name=Rice Cube]I agree with Bob Brenly. The effort from Barney was meh at best. Unfair error to Soto although the throw was low.[/quote]Brenly will always defend the catcher. (dying laughing)
can’t believe Bourne didn’t try to score
The food Brenly got looks better than anything I’ve ever seen at Wrigley (dying laughing)
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Brenly will always defend the catcher. (dying laughing)[/quote]
In this case I think he had a good point.
BABIP RBI!
ah jeez!
Carlos Lee always finds a way against the Cubs. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]BABIP RBI![/quote]
+ wind factor
[quote name=Mercurial Outfielder]Carlos Lee always finds a way against the Cubs. (dying laughing)[/quote]
He’ll hit a 500 ft HR before the day is over
Lopez reminds me of Maddux a bit.
[quote name=GW]Lopez reminds me of Maddux a bit.[/quote]Well, they do both play baseball.
So how soon before Tyler Colvin gets a call-up?
here comes a HR from Aramis
More empty batting averages.
[quote name=Rice Cube]So how soon before Tyler Colvin gets a call-up?[/quote]
not sure he wants one (dying laughing)
[quote name=Rice Cube]So how soon before Tyler Colvin gets a call-up?[/quote]Quade’s still trying to figure out how to find ABs for him.
[quote name=GW]Lopez reminds me of Maddux a bit.[/quote]
and have similar from-the-stretch deliveries
[quote name=GW]and have similar from-the-stretch deliveries[/quote]I think it’s because they’re both old and sore. (dying laughing)
i should say it’s the same way that charlie morton reminds me of roy halladay
[quote name=Horny Goat]not sure he wants one (dying laughing)[/quote]
With his luck and this team’s luck, he’d probably get stabbed again.
Huh. Brenly said something about not jumping into bricks. Odd.
if soriano goes on the DL and Colvin doesnt get the call he might as well demand a trade
Brenly just made a point that I made several times over the years. Outfielders at Wrigley just don’t make those plays against the wall because of the bricks. why risk injury? that’s why there are never any injuries out there.
Campana walked!
plays are made against the bricks, of course, they just don’t run full speed into them. I wonder why (dying laughing)
Brenly was deflecting criticism from Soriano when he said that.
Campana is a little bunny.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Campana walked![/quote]
and a SB. He should steal every time he gets on.
Soto just kind of gave up on that breaking ball. That happens a lot.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Campana is a little bunny.[/quote]
the energizer?
[quote name=Horny Goat]and a SB. He should steal every time he gets on.[/quote]
He’ll probably get a SB but it seemed like defensive indifference with 2 out and 8 hitter at bat.
Ricketts talking about the bad spring weather. shocking.
Ricketts obligatory Cubs fans are the greatest in baseball reference. (dying laughing)
Didn’t the entire training staff get fired after all the injuries in 2004?
Tom is having fuzzy memories about meeting his wife in the bleachers. They were both drunk and can’t remember which year it was or if the Cubs won or not.
Rodrigo is doing well against the worst team in the NL.
(dying laughing)
I might be a bit irrational but it annoys me that Tony Campana is wearing Lou Piniella’s number.
“high ceiling” for campana
i already like lopez more than doug davis
That prostate cancer commercial they just ran was depressing.
ask Tom when Brett Jackson is coming up, Len & Bob
Tommy Boy says Lamahieu has a really high ceiling and he’s hoping to see him get a lot of playing time. I have a feeling Quade hasn’t gotten the playing time memo.
I hated the Matt Garza trade. Fucking Ricketts (dying laughing)
It’s April 60th.
what exactly is his ceiling though? he looks like Darwin Barney to me
i like the garza trade
[quote name=dylanj]what exactly is his ceiling though? he looks like Darwin Barney to me[/quote]
He’s Darwin Barney after a growth spurt.
[quote name=dylanj] he looks like Darwin Barney to me[/quote]
False, he doesn’t appear to be of Asian heritage.
Ricketts doesn’t believe in instant replay (dying laughing)
FAIL!
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
[quote name=dylanj]i like the garza trade[/quote]
I’m still on the fence. Time will tell. I like Garza though
[quote name=dylanj]i like the garza trade[/quote]
I would like it better if it had resulted in receiving Zach Greinke. Brewers didn’t give KC anymore than what the Cubs gave the Rays.
true melissa. but im still happy with getting garza vs what we gave up
[quote name=Horny Goat]I’m still on the fence. Time will tell. I like Garza though[/quote]
I like Garza. I just don’t like the trade.
Ticketts being the typical Cubs fan on A-ram’s flyout, thinking every fly ball is going to be a homer.
I thought these kinds of days Castro would finally hit HRs, but he just doesn’t have the swing for it. Too many ground balls.
Bob Brenly got infused with intelligence today or something. He disagreed with Ricketts about not needing instant replay (dying laughing)
ricketts flirting with pujols
Michael Bourn is a quick dude
Campana is wearing his hat like a wigger.
[quote name=dylanj]ricketts flirting with pujols[/quote]
I didn’t hear that.
ah jeez. 1-run game.
Gotta keep them riveted!
It’s a pretty nice crowd today now that the weather stopped sucking.
[quote name=dylanj]i already like lopez more than doug davis[/quote]meh
Tie!
ah christ (dying laughing)
So much for that lead
sigh
[quote name=Horny Goat]
ah jeez. 1-run game.[/quote](dying laughing)
Ricketts out there when the stros rally. is that… ironic?
[quote name=Rice Cube]It’s a pretty nice crowd today now that the weather stopped sucking.[/quote]
For a 90 degree day on a holiday I’m surprised to see so many empty seats. Should be a full house.
just keeping the memories alive, SK
[quote name=melissa]For a 90 degree day on a holiday I’m surprised to see so many empty seats. Should be a full house.[/quote]
the times they are a-changin
Savor every moment.
I’d pay money to see Ricketts fire everyone on national TV (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]Savor every moment.[/quote]
The best is yet to come
No more Lopez.
First the longball, and now BABIP rears its ugly head.
I wasn’t watching. How does Molina-esque Brett Wallace get an infield single?
[quote name=Berselius]I wasn’t watching. How does Molina-esque Brett Wallace get an infield single?[/quote]
It bounced off of Peenya, who had to dive to get to it.
Bruce Miles:
http://blogs.dailyherald.com/node/5789
I think he would’ve been happier at Iowa.
Pee-nya got close to getting tossed after that called 3rd strike.
Give away outs…see what happens.
MISTING STATION
gotta love the sac bunt
WGN showing a portable misting station in the bleachers.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Speedy Gonzalez with a shittastic bunt directly back to the pitcher.
[quote name=Aisle424]WGN showing a portable misting station in the bleachers.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)[/quote]
Was it like a misting station?
[quote name=Suburban kid]MISTING STATION[/quote]
Is that like a stainless steel column that you can walk up to and they sense your presence and they mist.
[quote name=Horny Goat]gotta love the sac bunt[/quote]
He was bunting for a base hit.
Come on Shark! (dying laughing)
so we are really gonna let F7 bat here?
Fucking Quade
F7 up to bunt!
[quote name=melissa]He was bunting for a base hit.[/quote]
OK
4 SB’s
BALK!!!!!!
BALK!!!!!
wtf!?!?!
[quote name=Horny Goat]F7 up to bunt![/quote]
obviously I’m not paying any attention at this point (dying laughing)
[quote name=dylanj]wtf!?!?![/quote]
It’s a way of (L)ife.
surprised Q didn’t race out there protesting that balk. wtf?
Those hats may be the only thing on the field uglier than this team.
[quote name=Horny Goat]surprised Q didn’t race out there protesting that balk. wtf?[/quote]
I think he’s paying less attention than you. (dying laughing)
[quote name=Berselius]Is that like a stainless steel column that you can walk up to and they sense your presence and they mist.[/quote]In this case it was like a manually operated hose.
an obvious balk. how could they all miss that
Escalona did lift his back foot and move it behind the rubber. Not a balk
Fuck. Should’ve pinch-hit for Shark (dying laughing)
You could see it in the replay that he did move his foot slightly behind the rubber but Brenly probably couldn’t tell on the monitor he’s looking at out in the sun.
why can’t the cubs hit balls that go over the fence?
Fuldesque
[quote name=melissa]Escalona did lift his back foot and move it behind the rubber. Not a balk[/quote]
sneaky bastard. I didn’t see a better replay
[quote name=Suburban kid]Fuldesque[/quote]
cubs could use superman these days
[quote name=Horny Goat]why can’t the cubs hit balls that go over the fence?[/quote]
not like that, they can’t. done deal, sealed.
[quote name=GW]not like that, they can’t. done deal, sealed.[/quote]
you win
7 runs won’t win this game.
*But the Cubs won’t either.
Castro will go deep here
hey, play the slots enough and eventually you hit one.
Nice AB here.
Bob is excited for DBacks being in first place
[quote name=Rice Cube]Nice AB here.[/quote]
…until he grounded out on ball four.
Too close to take though. I guess I’ll live with that.
Grabow in the bullpen. Cubs wave white flag early.
[quote name=Rice Cube]Grabow in the bullpen. Cubs wave white flag early.[/quote]
blue flag (dying laughing)
If the Astros are the team who use the least number of sac bunts, are they MO’s favorite team by default?
[quote name=Horny Goat]blue flag (dying laughing)[/quote]
Correct. Less than no dinner for me.
(dying laughing)
2 wild pitches by F7 this inning.
[quote name=Horny Goat]2 wild pitches by F7 this inning.[/quote]
Koyie would’ve stopped those with his mind.
if history is any guide, cubs will get the next hitter, then give up a 2 out hit, scoring 2 runs.
Here comes Grabe
[quote name=Suburban kid]Here comes Grabe[/quote]
Three-run homer in 3…2…1…
[quote name=Rice Cube]Three-run homer in 3…2…1…[/quote]
Shut me right up (dying laughing)
With nicknames like that, Quade is lucky the players don’t call him Dingleberry.
That was a kind of lame error to Castro but it was still a tough play with Carlos Lee basically blocking his field of vision.
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
DeWitt
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
(dying laughing)
Cue yackety sax for DeWitt slipping and knocking ball into left field wall.
(dying laughing) @ DeSplatt