9/7/08 @ Reds; L 3-4; (86-57)

Ryan Theriot left the game today in the sixth inning because he was feeling sick. After his team blew a 3-1 lead in the ninth the entire Cub contingent is feeling sick.

Kerry Wood, pitching for the first time in four days, allowed a single and two walks to load the bases. A double and a single followed to score all three and give Cincinnati the win. Wood picked up his fourth loss of the season.

Sean Marshall had been sharp in his spot start. He allowed only three hits and two walks in six innings. Ronny Cedeno doubled in the seventh to break a 1-1 tie and put Marshall in position for the win. Mike Fontenot hit for Marshall and tacked on one more.

Ironically, the ninth inning double was originally ruled an error on Cedeno. After giving the Cubs the lead in the seventh, his failure to make that play may have cost them the game.

Chicago leaves Cincinnati with Monday off before they head to St. Louis. Thankfully the Brewers took it on the chin today in San Diego to stay four games back. They have only gained two games on Chicago over the last ten games.

Chicago needs to get back on track starting immediately. They have suffered through tough streaks this season, and this one is no different. But with only 19 games remaining, it is time to put an end to it.