7/13/08 vs Giants; L 2-4; (57-38)

The Chicago Cubs entered today with the best overall record in the major leagues. With a win, they would enter the All Star Break in sole possession of that distinction.

They had Ryan Dempster, (the most successful pitcher at home this year) going against Tim Lincecum (the most successful pitcher on the road this year), in an afternoon start at Wrigley Field.

The road warrior won.

Tim Lincecum not only pitched a great game, for the second game in a row against the Cubs, he had the go ahead RBI!

Dempster didn't have his best stuff today. He had a real tough third inning that put the team down three runs. He managed to stay in the game for almost seven innings, but had to scratch and claw the whole way.

Lincecum, on the other hand, dominated. He pitched eight innings, giving up only six hits while striking out nine. Only Derek Lee managed two hits against him.

Ryan Theriot did manage one hit, to extend his hitting streak to ten games. That is a new career high, and he is batting .425 during the last ten games. Today was the first time in five games he didn't manage a multi hit game.

So our beloved Chicago Cubs head to the All Star break tied with the LA Angels for the best overall record. They are 6-3 in their last nine games, winning all three series two games to one.

When they start up play again on Friday, in Houston, everyone should be rested and healthy, even the five guys playing in the All Star game. Alfonso should be coming back around the 24th of July, giving the team an added offensive boost.

There are sixty seven games to go in the regular season. Nineteen against St. Louis and Milwaukee. They lead the Cardinals in the NL Central by 4.5 games. They will control their own destiny.