NLDS Game 3: 10/4/08 @ Dodgers; L 1-3

You've really got to be kidding me.

97 regular season wins, first place since May 11th, and we go three and out!

We lead the National League in runs scored, averaging over 5 a game. We average only two in this sweep.

We acquire a pitcher in Harden who could realistically challenge Zambrano as the ace of the staff, thereby giving us three guys to pick from for game one. Two of the three fail to get out of the fifth inning in their starts.

We weren't among the top in fielding this year, but four errors in one game! All by separate infielders!

All the hope and optimism of this year was dashed in four short days. Cubs fans had waited 100 years for this, and in less than 100 hours it was taken away. This may be the longest winter for Cub fans ever. 1984 seemed bad. 2003 we were so close. This year we didn't get any of that.

Chicago has now dropped nine straight playoff games, five of them at home. Maybe I can give more later, but not this soon.

NLDS Game 2: 10/2/08 vs Dodgers; L 3-10

I'll remind you that the first Red Sox World Series Championship in 76 years didn't seem possible when they were down 3-0 to the Yankees in the NLCS. Those were the only three games they lost in that postseason. It could happen for the Cubs.

But not if they continue to play as they have the first two games. Right now they have five runs in two games. Mark DeRosa has driven in four and scored the fifth himself. I know he can play multiple defensive positions, but he can only bat in one spot in the lineup. A few other guys are going to have to swing the bats better.

Besides a lack of hitting, Chicago has displayed lack of pitching control and poor fielding. Dempster walked seven guys in game one. Zambrano had better control, but his infield committed four errors to allow five unearned runs.

Is there anything else they can do poorly? I don't think so. Possibly they have gotten it all out of their system and can move forward playing like the team that won 97 games. This is truly a good team. They can be dominant in all areas of the game and take control right back.

Let's give Zambrano his props for tonight. Lou asked for seven innings and he got it. Most of the runs allowed were unearned, and Zambrano didn't completely blow his top when faced with the adversity. He struck out seven while only walking two and hitting one.

When Harden and Lilly do their jobs and the series returns to Wrigley on Tuesday, I bet we see Zambrano as the first guy off the bench if Dempster isn't getting it done.

First things first, let's taking some batting and infield practice today.

NLDS Game 1: 10/1/08 vs. Dodgers; L 2-7

This game was nothing like last years Game 3. Last year we were already down two games and the lead off home run took all the air out of the stadium. I was at that game. To change up my luck this year, I invited Matt Snyder, he of AOL FanHouse fame, to accompany me. He lives and dies by the Cubs and I knew he would be the right guy.

There was a lot more energy, and Chicago police officers, in Wrigleyville than last year. We hit Bernies for a couple pre game libations while we watched the end of the Phillies-Brewers. Once inside, the flags confirmed what we had been talking about. A stiff wind blowing in from left. Matt presumed that combined with Dempster and Lowe, it meant a low scoring quick game.

For an inning and a half he was right on. Three walks, one each half inning, was the extent of the offense. Dempster even coaxed a double play ball from Manny in his first at bat to erase a base runner.

When the bottom of the second started I told Matt, "good now we are at the bottom of the order." Sure enough, with one out Jim Edmonds got the first hit of the game. DeRosa followed that with an unexpected home run that stayed just fair in right field. The place went nuts. On a night in which we expected no home runs, we now had an early two run lead. Dempster even singled that inning making us all think Lowe was going to be hittable.

In the third inning Dempster got himself in trouble by walking Lowe with one out. He walked Furcal as well and an infield single by Manny loaded the bases. Theriot made a nice stop but the throw was late, and Manny gets credit for hustling. Dempster got out of the jam striking out Ethier to end the inning.

In the third Derek Lee singled down the left field line with one out. Unfortunately Aramis grounded into a double play to end the inning. In the fourth Dempster gave up a hit, but finally went an inning without walking anyone.

The Cubs rallied with two outs in their half, a single by DeRosa followed by Theriot's base hit to right. But Dempster had used up his hit for the game and struck out. Then the mood shifted.

In the Dodger fifth, Dempster walked Furcal between outs by Lowe and Russell Martin. With two outs and one on, it didn't seem threatening. Then he walked Manny and Ethier back to back to load the bases. He had gotten out of a jam already, and Loney chasing a bad first pitch to get behind gave us hope. He swung and missed again to get into a 0-2 hole. But on a 1-2 count he drove a ball to deep center in the batters' eye that deflated the stadium almost as much as last years' Diamondbacks lead off home run.

Kemp followed that up with a double and that ended Dempster's night. Chicago managed singles in each of the fifth, sixth and seventh innings. Derek Lee grounded into a double play in the fifth and the other two innings Chicago just couldn't put another hit with those base runners.

The Dodgers tacked on runs in the seventh, eighth, and ninth to completely demoralize the crowd. Manny and Rusell Martin both hit home runs bringing the total to four on a night when we didn't think we would see any.

It would be easy to blame Dempster with his wildness. I know he would man up and claim responsibility. But he had Loney looking foolish and was one pitch from getting him out. Kemp's double would have driven in two and the game would have been tied. If's and buts.

The real blame should lie with the top of the order. Soriano and Fukudome each went hitless. Lee and Ramirez each managed a hit, but also each hit into a double play. Soto, hitting fifth, was also hitless.

The bottom of the order, including Fontenot pinch hitting, managed seven hits, both runs and both rbi. DeRosa and Theriot each had two hits on the night. For all we have heard about pitching, the Cubs offense will have to get going and get going right away to get Chicago back on track.

Z will come out charged up tonight, and an early offensive outpouring will serve to settle him in. Tonight cannot come quickly enough as the Cubs look to win their first playoff game since the NLCS game 4 in 2003. We have to take them a game at a time. The World Series drought can end, but the playoff win drought has to end first. TONIGHT!

Regular Season Recap

We lost game #1 at home to Milwaukee. We lost game #161 on the road to Milwaukee. In between, Chicago piled up 97 wins to take the NL Central title for the second year in a row. That is a feat not accomplished since the 1907 and 1908 years.

The win total of 97 is the best since the 1945 season, when Chicago posted 98 wins. 1945 is a common reference point for most of the statistical categories for this team. In addition to the win totals, their winning percentage is the best since 1945. There was a stat on FOX during yesterday's game that showed five categories that had the best numbers since 1945, and in some cases 1935. In addition to wins and winning percentage, run differential was in there too.

Individual leaders this year put up some pretty good numbers too. Ryan Dempster put up 17 wins, and Ted Lilly matched him. Dempster also led in strikeouts (187) and ERA (2.96). Kerry Wood was the obvious saves leader with 34 in 40 chances. Carlos Marmol led the team with almost twelve (11.75) strikeouts per nine innings pitched.

Hitting awards were more dispersed. Ryan Theriot led in average (.306) and OBP(.386). Aramis drove in 111 runs to lead the team, while Soriano knocked 29 out of the yard for the team lead. DeRosa was the leader for runs scored (103) while Derek Lee tallied the most hits on the team (181).

Five Cubs hit 20 or more home runs, and Jim Edmonds (19) almost made it six in just 85 games with Chicago. The same five players also drove in 75 or more runs apiece. Just for the record, they are Ramirez (27,111), Lee (20,90), DeRosa (21,87), Soto (23,86), and Soriano (29,75).

Let's look forward to Chicago putting up eleven wins in the post season to put the proper end to what is already a fantastic season.

9/28/08 @ Milwaukee; L 1-3; (97-64)

The regular season came to an end today for Chicago. It came at the hands of another complete game victory by CC Sabathia. Combined with a Mets loss, it secured the wild card for Milwaukee.

Only Aramis Ramirez and Ryan Theriot managed hits against Sabathia. They each had two hits, Theriot's securing his above .300 batting average.

Chicago chose to throw almost all the pitcher in the bullpen an inning or two. Losing today means Chicago went 4-4 since clinching.

Now we are back to games that matter. Wednesday Chicago will host the Dodgers. Dempster will be on the mound for Chicago while Derek Lowe will toe the rubber for the visitors.

9/27/08 @ Milwaukee; W 7-3; (97-63)

They did it. The Cubs won their 97th game of the year, breaking a tie with the 1984 team for the most wins in my lifetime. The win total exceeds the total from every year since 1945. In 1945, Chicago won 98 games and advanced to the World Series. My uncle and grandmother attended one game at Wrigley.

Ted Lilly was not only superb in the 97th win, he was reminiscent of the game he pitched following Zambrano's no hitter. Eerily reminiscent, since he went six no hit innings then...and again today. Eerily reminiscent, since it was broken up in the seventh by the first hitter...both wearing number 8.

Not bad for the #4 starter in the playoffs. Two six inning no hitters in the month of September. Is this team deep or what?

Speaking of deep, Chicago was out to a 4-0 lead through six innings... with no starters playing! My apologies to Kosuke Fukudome and Reed Johnson. Both of you have been on the lineup card numerous times this year. However, it was Daryle Ward homering with Ronny Cedeno on base to give the Cubs the early 2-0 lead. Then it was Mike Fontenot driving in Cedeno and Micah Hoffpauir to extend the lead. I will give 100 to 1 odds that none of those four names make a starting lineup throughout the playoffs.

Once the Brewers rallied (thanks Jason Marquis) these reserves came right back. A pinch hit single by Ryan Theriot was followed by a home run by Kosuke Fukudome. Mike Fontentot drove in another run (Cedeno) to increase the lead to four.

What about Mr. Fontentot? Two more hits today and three rbi. That puts him at 8 out of 13 in the last three days. I think he is my choice for the first left hander off the bench during the playoffs.

In my mind, this win makes tomorrow completely meaningless. While we could tie the 1945 team in total wins, they only played 154 games, so winning percentage still goes to that team. Almost all team records for Chicago since 1945 have been matched or beaten. Not that Lou hasn't been taking it easy, resting most starters, but tomorrow is much like the last spring training game. Get every one an at bat, throw a few pitchers, and get ready for Wednesday.

We still don't know who we play Wednesday. Thanks to the Mets win, and the Cubs defeat of Milwaukee, they are deadlocked for the wild card. The Cubs get the Mets, should they prevail. Otherwise it is the Dodgers should the Brewers get in.

We do know at this point that Dempster will get the start in that game, regardless the opponent. I will be there, as I was last year at the disappointing loss to Arizona. The atmosphere will surely be different than one year ago. GO CUBS GO!

9/26/08 @ Milwuakee; L 1-5; (96-63)

Ryan Dempster went five innings allowing only four hits and a walk. He left the game in a 1-1 tie. Jim Edmonds homer in the second provided the only Cubs run. Milwuakee ended up getting four runs off the relievers and won their fifth straight game.

The only concern right now is injuries, and Geovony Soto was pulled during his second at bat. Cubs.com reports that it was precautionary, and he may play on Sunday. He was originally pulled a week ago and has been given some time to allow the minor injury to recuperate.

Mike Fontenot was tonight's silver lining, managing three hits for the second night in a row. Six hits in two nights raised his average over .300 for the season. It will be nice to have him so locked in during the playoffs as pinch hitter.

Speaking of .300 hitters, Ryan Theriot got two knocks and is at .304 for the season. He broke out of his slump with back to back three hit games against New York. He now has eight hits in his last four games, in an effort to stay above .300 through the end of the season.

Houston was officially eliminated, meaning our regular season ends Sunday. The last two games don't matter, but Chicago has been playing hard throughout. Surely they will manage one more win to get to 97.

9/25/08 @ New York; L 6-7; (96-62)

Chicago got out to an early lead, lost it, got it back, and lost it again. Carlos Beltran ended the game with an rbi single with two outs in the ninth.

Rich Harden pitched six innings in his playoff tuneup.

Micah Hoffpauir was the star on a night when only a couple normal starters played. He went five for five with five rbi. His first two major league home runs came last night as well.

Mike Fontenont had three hits as well raising his average to .295.

Now it is on to Milwaukee for the final series of the season. Houston is a game away from being eliminated, so that missed game will most likely not be made up.

9/24/08 @ New York; W 9-6; (96-61)

Never say die. Chicago was down 5-1 after a grand slam by Carlos Delgado. Mark DeRosa, who homered for the first run, doubled home two more in the fifth. Chicago added two more on a single by Reed Johnson to tie the game. That gave Zambrano a chance to pick up a win.

He couldn't do it. He left in the bottom of the fifth. Second straight start for Z where he failed to finish five innings. Chicago claimed the lead in the seventh on an rbi hit by Alfonso Soriano. But Jeff Samardizja couldn't hold the lead. He walked in a run in the eighth to tie the game at six.

In the ninth, the Mets had a lead off triple, but couldn't score. That sent it to extra innings. Theriot managed a two out hit in the tenth to get to Derek Lee. If he manages to keep his average above .300, he will be the first Cub shortstop to play over 100 games and hit .300 since Ernie Banks. He then stole second and scored on a bloop double by Derek Lee down the right field line. That extended Derek Lee's hitting streak to nine games.

Aramis Ramirez followed that with his 27th homer of the year to put the Cubs up by three runs.

Kerry Wood came in and shut down the Mets, striking out Jose Reyes to end the game. 96 wins. Tied with the 1984 team for most in most of our lifetimes.

9/23/08 @ New York; L 2-6; (95-61)

Just prior to the game I spoke to Gene, godfather to my oldest son Zach. He is a huge Mets fan. The only game I ever saw at Shea Stadium was with him. He was at the game last night. He was asking for my support for the Mets. I told him I couldn't root against the Cubs, but didn't expect much in a matchup that pitted Johan Santana against Sean Marshall.

Turns out, I was half right. Sean Marshall left the game after five innings with a 2-2 tie. He did a pretty good job, striking out seven. Much better than I thought. However, Santana ended up going eight innings allowing only the two runs. A really poor sixth inning by Chad Gaudin was the difference as the Mets scored four times. The killer was a three run triple by Jose Reyes.

Reed Johnson and Kosuke Fukudome had spotted the Cubs a 2-0 lead after three innings. After that, Chicago managed just four hits the rest of the way. Johnson and Fukudome each had a couple hits to lead the way.

And with the luxury of playing for nothing, we move on to the next day. Two wins needed with four games to play for my lifetime regular season win total. Big Z will go tomorrow and try to pick up one of them.

9/22/08 @ New York; W 9-5; (95-60)

If Jason Marquis doesn't get a chance to be in the playoff rotation, maybe he can pinch hit. With the game tied 2-2 in the fourth, Marquis came to bat with the bases loaded and no one out. He hit the first pitch he saw into deep right center field for his first career grand slam. He grounded out in his next at bat for his fifth rbi of the game.

As for the position players who had a nice day, DeRosa and Theriot each collected three hits. Reed Johnson went two for two with two rbi and scored a run. Derek Lee hit a solo shot to give him twenty home runs on the season. The Cubs now have five players with 20 or more home runs.

The win moves Chicago to 3-0 on the season against their current first round playoff opponent. It also clinches the best overall NL record, giving them the home field advantage throughout the NL playoffs.

The only cause for concern tonight would be Geo leaving early. Presumably it was a sore hand, and was just precautionary. My guess is he gets today off too. Lou also adjusted the pitching rotation for this week in preparation for the playoffs.

Sean Marshall will get Harden's start tonight against Santana. Speaking of pitching, we didn't address Marquis. He did a reasonable job getting Chicago to the seventh inning before turning things over to the bullpen. He gave up four runs. Since he drove in five I guess that's okay. He allowed eight hits and four walks. Still, he earned his eleventh win against nine losses assuring him of finishing the season above .500.

Two wins to go to best the 1984 team.

9/21/08 vs. Cardinals; W 5-1; (94-60)

On the first day after clinching the NL Central, Lou Piniella gave nearly all the regulars a day off. Kosuke Fukudome led off and played right field. He was the only opening day starter in the lineup today. We all know that he is currently considered a starter. The starting lineup included four guys who didn't get called up until the rosters expanded.

Much like Friday's loss, when these guys played a significant role, they got some timely hits and drove in runs. Felix Pie had two hits and scored twice while Casey McGehee had two hits and two runs driven in. Micah Hoffpauir had a double and an rbi as well.

Ryan Dempster earned his seventeenth win of the season in five easy innings. No walks, six hits, and only one run allowed. He only threw 67 pitches before turning things over to the bullpen.

Win #94 puts this team in second place, behind only the 1984 team with 86 wins, in season win totals since 1945. That team had 98 wins. Those are the only two numbers we are playing for in our last seven regular season games. 3-4 gives us 97 and puts us above the 1984 team. 4-3 ties us with the 1945 team while 5-2 gets us the most wins since the 1935 team.

Realistically, the fans care about those, but the team is in preparation mode for the playoffs. Players will be rested, the rotation will be adjusted to favor the playoff match ups. Playing the two teams fighting for the wild card won't bode well for racking up a 5-1 record. I'll take 97 wins for the most in my lifetime, and then prepare for the pennant for the first time in my life.

9/20/08 vs. Cardinals; W 5-4; (93-60)

Ted Lilly is the most appropriate pitcher to win the NL Central clinching game. His recent success and win at all cost attitude has been vital. Not bad for the #4 guy in the rotation.


The St. Louis Cardinals are the most appropriate opponent. These guys have been our rival for as long as anyone can remember.

Kerry Wood is the most appropriate closer. Think back to 2003, when he was a starter. One of only three rostered players who was on the 2003 team.

Jim Edmonds is the most appropriate person to record the final out of the clinching game. At the beginning of the year we didn't know about center field. Edmonds was just the former Cardinal we all hated. Nice for him to be the guy who does it against the Cardinals.


Chicago...for the second time in 100 years...we have repeated.


In a game that started out all Chicago...and became a toss up...the Cubs prevailed. A 5-0 lead evaporated as St. Louis pulled within one. Troy Glaus only has four hits against Chicago this year, but they are all big ones. His three run homer today gave St. Louis hope.


Hope is all they had. Ted Lilly was terrific through seven innings. Yes he gave up the three run bomb, but he does that. The rest was great. Then we had Marmol and Woody for an inning each. Just the way it is supposed to work. Seven strong from your starter, and one excellent inning each from the bullpen studs.

Offensively, Chicago made it easy on Lilly. Actually, the Cardinals defense made it easy. In the bottom of the second, after a leadoff double by Edmonds and a walk to Soto, DeRosa hit a double play ball. It was fielded well, but indecision allowed DeRosa to beat the relay. After a walk to Kosuke and a strikeout for Lilly, Soriano singled to left. Brian Barton misplayed it and three runs scored as the ball rolled to the wall.

In the fourth, Soto reached on an error and then scored on DeRosa's double. DeRosa then came around to score on a squeeze bunt by Lilly.

When Edmonds squeezed the fly ball for the final out, the Cubs celebrated on the mound. They celebrated not with a dog pile, but just as if they had won one more game. That tells me they think there is more work to do.

This win, this division title, is just a step along the way. The whole team knows that. The goal is the first World Series title. It is nice to know the whole team is prepared for that.

9/19/08 vs Cardinals; L 6-12; (92-60)

A day after Chicago's "defining moment" game, the Cubs lost miserably to the Cardinals. Z didn't have it, giving up five runs in the first. Adam Kennedy capped that inning with a grand slam on his way to a four for five day. Three more in the second ended Zambrano's day early. He wasn't the only one. In the top of the fifth Lou Piniella made six position player substitutions.

In a season where we only need two wins to clinch (or two Brewers losses) this is an easy one to let go of. Like Bob Brenly said, we need to look for a silver lining in a game like this. He was specifically talking about getting some work for Angel Guzman to see what he has and how he can contribute.

Other guys who got a chance and did well today...Mike Fontenot (doesn't he always), Ronny Cedeno (two runs), Daryle Ward (two hits, a run and an rbi), Micah Hoffpauir (a hit and a run) and Casey McGehee (two rbi). More evidence that this team has a variety of guys who can get it done on any given day.

Zambrano was probably emotionally not all there after returning Thursday from Venezuela following the death of his grandmother. His defining moment for the day was trying to leave the field as Lou came to take him out. He was made to return to the mound and give Lou the ball. He later apologized.

Milwaukee lost to Cincinnati later in the day, meaning the next Cubs win is the NL Central clincher. All eyes on Chicago today at 3:55 ET as they look to take the next step in an historic season.

9/18/08 vs. Brewers; W 7-6; (92-59)

I'm at work preparing for a meeting with the Regional VP who is in town today. I'm tracking the game on my phone, and the Cubs lead 2-1 when I have to go to the meeting. Rich Harden is in trouble again so I am a little concerned. By the time I get out of the meeting and get Ron and Pat on WGN 720 on my car radio, it is extra innings.

At that point I am rushing to board meeting for the CCFA. Again, I have to track the game on my phone as Chicago wins on Derek Lee's single in the twelfth. As happy as I am, I have no idea about the circumstances surrounding this game until the next morning.

Having missed everything from the top of the fifth to the bottom of the tenth, I didn't realize the Cubs were trailing 6-2 in the ninth with two outs and no one on. For the Brewers, this loss may be worse than getting swept by us in Milwaukee. This very well may have signaled the absolute end of their season.

My friend Gerry told me that he was listening, and Pat and Ron actually called it. He said once Aramis Ramirez doubled...error on Ryan Braun....they said all Chicago needed was an rbi single, another base hit, and a three run homer by Soto. That is exactly what they got. I can't even imagine the atmosphere at the game at that time.

I won't even go into stats for any individual in this game because this is about the team. Everyone did what they had to do, when they had to do it and earned a win in what may be called the defining game for Chicago Cubs 2008. They never give up, they are never out, this is their year!

9/17/08 vs. Brewers; L 2-6; (91-59)

The winning streak is over. Chicago won't clinch the title in this series with Milwaukee. The only silver lining to that is they stand a good chance to do it against the Cardinals.

Jason Marquis started out extremely rough today, allowing the first four hitters to reach base. Prince Fielder's bases clearing double gave Milwaukee all the runs they would need, and there still hadn't been an out recorded in the game. He is six for nine in the two games so far with six rbi.

The lone highlight was a line drive home run by Aramis that took less than two seconds to leave the park. I mean, Fontenot made a nice diving catch at second base, but for the most part this was a game we were destined to lose.

When you look back at the predictions for the remainder of the season when we were 80-50, at this point it was predicted we would be 93-58. We lost one game to Hurricane Ike, presume please it was a win. We are only one game worse than that prediction. The end result of that prediction was a 99-63 record.

Presuming that Houston won't need that one game, should we finish right on track with these predictions, we end up 98-63. 98 wins is phenomenal. Most in my lifetime. Heck, 6-5 gets us 97 wins. Still better than the 1984 team (96) and the best since the 98 wins in 1945....the last time the Cubs played in the World Series.

Just as we knew the losing streak would stop, so to did the winning streak. A win today and two over the Cardinals on the weekend makes next week irrelevant...for the Cubs at least. Both Milwaukee and the Mets will be fighting for their lives and taking turns rooting for the Cubs.

9/16/08 vs. Brewers; W 5-4; (91-58)

Kerry Wood on the mound. Prince Fielder at the plate. Two outs, top of the ninth. Cubs clinging to a one run lead. The Brewers have two runners on. Prince Fielder already has two home runs on the night. A ten pitch battle, won by Kerry Wood. Strikeout looking!

Two more games off the magic number and the winning streak continues! The magic is back at Wrigley.

For the third game in a row, Alfonso Soriano scored in the first inning. That has to be encouraging to a starting pitcher. What was more impressive is this time, it was against CC Sabathia. For the first time since coming to the NL, CC was hung with the loss. How sweet that the Cubs got the honor.

The Cubs tacked on two more runs in the third to open up a 3-0 lead. Ryan Dempster kept the Brewers scoreless for five innings. He had allowed only three hits and a walk heading into the sixth. Then it got a little closer. A Ray Durham double led off the inning. Two batters later Prince Fielder got his first home run of the game to pull the Brewers within one run. Dempster worked his way around two more hits in the inning and was pulled for the seventh.

Chicago, looking more like the team from three weeks ago, added some late runs to help protect the lead. Soriano homered in the seventh. Fielder answered in the eighth to keep it a one run game. In the Cub eighth, Henry Blanco came through with a two out pinch hit single to make it a two run game again.

Woody needed it, as he allowed three hits and a run in the ninth. Still, he got the big out when he needed it and picked up his 31st save on the season. For Dempster it was his 16th win, his 13th at home. That is the most since Fergie Jenkins in 1971. I do believe this team is trying to put up the best numbers in my lifetime in every category. The most important numbers I want them to put up are six zeroes.....right under the Eamus Catuli sign.

9/15/08 vs. Astros @ Milwaukee; W 6-1; (90-58)

Ninety Wins! For only the fourth time since I have been on the planet, the Chicago Cubs professional baseball team has posted 90 wins. And there are still 14 games to go! They maintain an eight game lead on Milwaukee heading into a three game set with the Brewers at Wrigley. That will be the Brewers first under interim manager Dale Sveum, since they fired Ned Yost today.

Imagine that conversation. Brewers GM: "Ned, the organization is going to have to make some changes. Go clean out your locker, but stay out of the way of the Cubs who are using our field to expand their lead on us." Poor timing to say the least.

The Cubs won their 90th game much like they won their 89th. Alfonso Soriano scored in the first inning to put the Cubs up 1-0. They added to that lead throughout the game, while their pitcher kept the Astros hitless. At the end of the sixth inning, the magical season was seeming just a bit more magical. Cubs pitchers had held the Astros without a hit for fifteen consecutive innings. The seventh was started with an error on Aramis Ramirez...and the crowd cheered. Unfortunately, a base hit followed that and the no no was gone. However, that was the only hit allowed all day. The entire two game series for that matter.

In their last three games, Harden allowed two runs, Zambrano none, and Lilly one. That's 27 innings with three earned runs. 1.00 is a pretty good ERA I think. Thank the pitchers for getting this team on the right track. And we all know, good pitching wins playoff series.

The Cubs did play long ball today. Edmonds had a solo shot and the big inning was the sixth. Lee and Soto each had two run bombs to put the game out of reach at 6-0. Chicago's offense hasn't been silent during these wins. They have exactly seven hits in each of the last three games. However, the pitching has stolen the show.

What a difference a week makes. Last Monday was a day off for Chicago. They had barely broken their six game losing streak with a win at Cincinnati, only to lose again the next day. Talk of the inevitable collapse was on us. Tuesday was another loss, this time to the Cardinals.

But then something happened. The Cubs won two one run games behind solid pitching from Lilly and Harden. Then Hurricane Ike gave Chicago two days off. During those two days, the Brewers dropped both games to Philadelphia. Chicago got back to playing ball with yesterday's no hitter, while Milwaukee dropped two more. Now Ned Yost is fired, the Cubs almost go back to back no hitters when they haven't had one since 1972, and the lead seems all but insurmountable.

The only question surrounding the Cubs now is who is the first round opponent. What seemed to be a foregone conclusion that the Brewers were the wild card team, is gone. If the Phillies catch and pass the Brewers, Chicago gets the Phillies instead of the NL West champs.

What's on deck for Chicago. A sweep of the Brewers...come on we are all thinking it....clinches the NL Central title at Wrigley Field against the team that beat us on opening day. Talk about a spiritual cleansing!

GO CUBS GO!

9/14/08 vs. Houston @ Milwaukee; W 5-0; (89-58)

The first no hitter since 1972! Big Z is back in a big way! These headlines steal the thunder...or add to Cecil Cooper's argument...that Milwaukee is not neutral. Combined with a double header sweep of the Brewers by the Phillies, Chicago easily had it's best day in two weeks.

The game started with Alfonso Soriano hitting a lead off home run. That proved to be enough for Z, who allowed only a walk and a hit batter through nine innings. Chicago added four more in the third. With two outs, consecutive hits by Lee, Ramirez and Soto gave the Cubs a five run advantage.

But tonight was about Z. After concern over his health, and five really shaky starts, he has shown us he is fine. 110 pitches tonight says "my arm is fine." Not only was he healthy...he was excellent. 73 were strikes. He had a season high ten strikeouts.

Two days off and a day like Sunday helps Chicago fans have a short memory. The last two weeks are fading away quickly. There are no more days off for Chicago, so they will need to play like they did today more often than not. Another win today and then Milwaukee comes to Wrigley. Four in a row makes Chicago NL Central champs!

9/11/08 @ St. Louis; W 3-2; (88-58)

For the first time in September, Chicago has a winning streak. Two games....so far...but it is a winning streak. Combined with the Brewers loss, Chicago's lead extends to 5.5 games and the magic number is 11.

The Cubs jumped on the Cardinals in the top of the fifth. They sent seven hitters to the plate, scored two runs, and never got a ball out of the infield. Solid Cub baseball right there.

Soto walked to lead off the inning and advanced to second when Pujols booted Reed Johnson's grounder. The Cardinals seemed to pick themselves up when Rich Harden popped out trying to bunt. They couldn't stand the prosperity, so Wellemeyer threw a wild pitch so that the runners could advance. Consecutive walks to Soriano and Theriot plated the first run. Derek Lee hit a grounder to Lopez...he did catch and throw this one accurately...but it was to first allowing a second run to score.

The Cubs tacked on what proved to be the deciding run when Mark DeRosa doubled to lead off the sixth and Mike Fontenot doubled right after him.

Harden allowed his only two runs in the sixth, which was his last inning. Samardizja, Marmol, and Wood each pitched scoreless innings to finish it up and get Harden his fifth win as a Cub. For Wood, it was his first scoreless inning of work in September.

Now it is a waiting game. With Hurricane Ike bearing down on Texas, the first two games against Houston have been postponed. The last I heard was a double header Sunday and then the final game on Monday which was to be Chicago's last off day of the season.

Hopefully Philadelphia will keep beating the Brewers so we can work the magic number down while resting at home Friday and Saturday.

9/10/08 @ St. Louis; W 4-3; (87-58)

The W Flag is flying again. It hasn't flown in my backyard often lately. So I'll take any win I can get. And any win is exactly what Chicago got. They scored four runs in the second inning, three unearned after two errors by Cardinals substitute third baseman. Just like the day before, they never touched the plate again. Then Kerry Wood picked up a save, but not before allowing two runs on home run by Ryan Ludwick.

The bright and shining performance was by Ted Lilly. He went eight innings with only one run allowed. In addition, he plowed over Yadier Molina on an attempt to score in the second inning. He was out, but it was sure nice to see the fight...as if we expected anything less from Lilly.

Felix Pie got the scoring started for Chicago. Following singles by Fukudome and DeRosa, Pie singled to drive in the first run. Errors on an attempted sacrifice bunt and Soriano's ground ball allowed two more runs to score. Aramis Ramirez came through with a two out single to plate the final run.

Soriano also made a nice throw from left to cut down a run on a two out single. Defensively Chicago was solid, with a slight exception for Wood. After a couple rough outings, he at least managed the save. It would have made us all feel better if he didn't allow a two run bomb in the process. Glad it wasn't a one run lead.

Regardless, one more win. One more game off the magic number. One more game won without Harden and Z. Look at the major league standings. The recent slump notwithstanding, Chicago still owns the third best record in all of baseball, only one game back of the Angels.

The slump isn't a uniquely Chicago experience. It has happened to the Angels and the Red Sox. Teams that were playing poorly...Houston Astros...are suddenly hot. Two and a half weeks to go, our fortunes will change.

9/9/08 @ St. Louis; L 3-4; (86-58)

I wanted to start writing this entry in the first inning. Theriot singled, followed by consecutive doubles from Lee and Ramirez. The Cubs were up 2-0 after only four batters. I was encouraged.

I wanted to start writing this entry in the third inning. Theriot tripled to lead off. Aramis Ramirez singled with two outs to make it 3-0. Dempster still hadn't allowed a hit.

Needless to say, I didn't start writing it then. When Albert Pujols came to the plate in the sixth inning with two on and no out, I thought to myself walk him. Instead Dempster gave him a fastball on the outer half of the plate that Pujols promptly hit into the right field stands.

Just like that the optimism and the hope were gone. Not mine..well yes mine too...but the Cubs. In July and early August no lead was safe for the opponent. Chicago found a way to win. Now in back to back games, early leads have been erased. The team is playing like they are waiting for the other shoe to drop.

Chicago didn't score again the rest of the game. It went to the bottom of the ninth. Whereas the Reds on Sunday needed three runs, St. Louis only needed one. And they got it. On a check swing grounder with a drawn in infield, St. Louis was able to squeak out a run and take this game away.

My only consolation this morning is that the Reds beat the Brewers again! If it wasn't for the Brewers matching us loss for loss over the last ten games, Cubs fan may have committed mass Harry Caray.

On the positive side, Harden and Zambrano are ready to go. Each threw a bullpen session with no issues. The top two pitchers have one start total in the month of September. It doesn't require a large hadron collider scientist to realize that may contribute to the recent slump.

Silver Lining

In trying to cheer myself up, I stumbled across a nice post at bleedcubbieblue.com. Seems like Chicago is just positioning itself to mirror the September results of past World Series Champions.

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.

9/6/08 @ Cincinnati; W 14-9; (86-56)

The Chicago Cubs threw a party for Derek Lee's birthday. It was a good one too with five home runs, eighteen total hits, and a convincing win to break that nasty losing streak.

Lee went four for six with three runs batted in. But it was Alfonso Soriano who stole the show on Lee's 33rd birthday, hitting three home runs for the second time as a Cub. He drove in five runs and scored four times, also tallying four hits.

Mark DeRosa finished an impressive third in this rbi competition with three of his own all on a home run in the seventh inning.

The Cubs had the lead extended to 11-1 in the eighth inning. Jason Marquis had another solid outing for the Cubs. Something much needed by this worn out pitching staff. The bullpen however, didn't follow up Marquis' solid outing and allowed the game to get much closer.

In the end it didn't matter. The win was therapeutic, at least for this fan, if not for the entire Cub faithful. I am sure the team itself breathed a sigh of relief in picking up their first win of September.

The Cubs will try to pick up their first series win with a victory on Sunday. Sean Marshall will spot start again for Chicago. Their wounded, Harden and Zambrano, will both try to come back later this week.

9/5/08 @ Reds; L 2-10; (85-56)

In an effort to lift the spirits and inspire some hope, let's not talk about the last six games. Let's talk about the last thirteen. Since August 22nd, the Cubs are 7-6. The Brewers have only gained a half game on them in that two week stretch. We added three games to the lead on the Cardinals in those two weeks.

In fact, if anyone wants to start giving Chicago crap about how badly this week has gone, just tell them "wait 'til next week."

In today's debacle, Ted Lilly gave up five runs in two innings. The offense didn't do anything until Lou started playing the whole bench. Koyie Hill had two hits, producing the only two runs Chicago scored.

What else can be said about a day that started with Lou Piniella and Matt Sinatro getting lost on the way from Chicago to Cincinnati? They eventually found their way. So too will the Cubs.

9/3/08 vs Astros; L 0-4; (85-55)

Chicago fans are saddened by the longest losing streak since June 2, 2007 for their beloved Cubs. One night after an offensive explosion, Chicago managed only six singles against Astros starter Randy Wolf. Wolf ended up throwing a complete game shutout against Chicago. The loss prevented Chicago from gaining ground on Milwaukee, who lost earlier in the day to the Mets.

After seven straight wins, the Cubs have endured five straight losses. Realistically, we'll take 7-5 over a twelve game stretch at this point in the season. It just looks worse when it is so streaky.

Chicago will get a day off today and three games against the Reds. That will be their only sub .500 opponent for the rest of the year. If there is a time to get back on a winning streak, this weekend will be it.

9/2/08 vs. Astros; L 7-9; (85-54)

The Cubs fell again on Tuesday night, but extra base hits wasn't the problem. Alfonso Soriano led off the bottom of the first with a home run to break a three game streak of singles. Chicago went on to add three more home runs and three doubles on their way to fifteen hits.

No, offense wasn't the problem in this 7-9 extra inning loss. Pitching and defense, that was the problem. Zambrano left after five innings. More on that later. Bob Howry gave up four runs without getting anyone out. The Cubs....no, Aramis Ramirez...committed three errors in the late innings. And finally, Kerry Wood gave up a two run homer which was the game winner.

On a positive note the Amazin' Mets, our nemesis from '69, did beat the Brewers for the second straight day. That keeps Chicago's lead at 4.5 games. If only Chicago could find a way to beat Houston. The loss yesterday assures Chicago of their first series loss in over a month. Houston leads the season series 8-6 with four games left.

Still on the positives, the offense certainly broke out of the slump. Every player with more than one at bat, except Zambrano, managed a base hit. After Soriano's lead off shot, DeRosa, Soto, and Edmonds all went deep with solo shots. Soto added a double on a three hit night for him. Ramirez and Ryan Theriot both doubled as well. Lee and Fontenot both collected two hits, and Kosuke pinch hit and managed a walk and a hit. I think Cub's hitting coach Gerald Perry is breathing just a little easier right now.

Larry Rothschild though, along with all the Cub fans across the country, are a bit nervous. Big Z left after five and is going to have his arm examined. In his last six outings he is averaging less than 5 1/3 innings. Luckily the Cubs have won four of those outings, but Zambrano was credited with the win only once. To leave with sore arm after getting an extra two days rest isn't what we hoped to see today.

The errors by Ramirez and the late inning home run allowed by Wood sure reminded me of April. My only consolation is that we went 15-8 that month, and that should be good enough to keep us in first place through this month.

Sweet Lou has been around baseball a long time and he doesn't seem concerned. Chicago has lost four in a row before, as recently as the end of June. Just as the sure as the previous streaks ended, so will this streak. Chicago will turn it around...hopefully sooner than later...and put together another hot streak. I just hope Zambrano is part of it.

9/1/08 vs. Houston; L 0-3; (85-53)

Four hits...four singles. That makes three days of singles. 26 of them to be exact. Now I know Chicago can win with small ball, we watched it happen just last week. I know Lou says this team is built around pitching and defense. All that said...you can't win if you don't score.

Today may have had more to do with Roy Oswalt than the Chicago bats. He went 8 1/3 innings allowing only the four hits. Two were in the ninth inning.

The only good news on they day...Milwaukee lost too. The lead remains 4.5 games. Chicago was also shutout on August 1st, 3-0, and that month turned out okay. Maybe we can look for history to repeat itself.

As for Chicago's pitching and defense, Marquis went six innings and only gave up the two runs. Chicago did commit two errors today and a run scored on a wild pitch.

In reality, the tear Chicago was on not only couldn't continue, it was bound to be followed by a dip. We can still win the series. Good outings by Zambrano and Dempster combined with a little upgrade in the offensive production will make us forget the first 3 game home losing streak of 2008.

8/31/08 vs. Phillies; L 3-5; (85-52)

For the first time since July 26th, Chicago lost two in a row. In between, they went 25-6. It was an impressive run, but the Phillies put an end to it. For the second day in a row, Jason Werth hit a home run. For the second day in a row, Chicago got eleven hits...all of them singles. For the second day in a row, the W flag didn't fly and GO CUBS GO didn't resonate from the Wrigley Field PA system.

Carlos Zambrano was held out of the game to rest his arm. He'll now go Tuesday against the Astros. Sean Marshall pitched in his spot. It also bumps Harden back in the rotation to give him a couple extra days rest as well.

Marshall did his job giving the rotation a break, for the second straight time he has been asked to spot start, Chicago lost. Today he gave up three in the first inning, and Chicago never recovered.

Chicago finished August 20-8, their best month not only this year but since 1984. Now the crucial month of September is upon us. Crucial because the 1969 team entered the month with a record of 83-52. They went 9-18 in September to lose the pennant. The 1945 team entered at 76-46 and then won 22 more games.

What will happen to the 2008 version. So far, SHOW's prediction of 98 wins is dead on. He called a 5-2 week against the Pennsylvania teams and was perfect. I like his odds for the rest of the year.

8/30/08 vs. Phillies; L 2-5; (85-51)

The day after Mark DeRosa's hitting streak ended, the Cubs winning streak ended. Jason Werth did most of the damage driving in four runs and hitting two home runs. Chicago managed their own fair share of hits, but most of them were singles. They didn't capitalize and get the clutch hits when they needed.

Ted Lilly started rough, allowing a lead off single and following that up with a hit batter. Then he settled in and retired twelve in a row. He entered the fifth inning with a one run lead, courtesy of Mark DeRosa and Geovony Soto. DeRosa singled in his first at bat of the day and advanced on Kosuke Fukudome's bunt single. The third base hit in a row, by Soto, scored DeRosa.

Lilly's streak of twelve in a row ended when Jason Werth led off the fifth with a home run to tie the game. He then retired the next three batters. The sixth was the real problem. Singles by Utley and Howard, followed by another hit batter, loaded the bases for...Jason Werth. His single to right field scored two to give the Phillies the lead.

In the eighth inning, Howard hit a solo shot to center and Werth hit his second of the game to extend the lead to 5-1. The Cubs had hope though when Theriot and Lee started the inning with consecutive singles. That brought up Mr. Clutch, Aramis Ramirez, who singled home a run. It sure seemed the Cubs were prepping for another come back win. But JC Romero relieved Myers and struck out three to end the threat.

The Cubs did manage eleven hits, but not a single one of them an extra base hit. Derek Lee led the way for Chicago with three hits. Theriot, Soto, and DeRosa each had a pair of hits. Now the Cubs will need to win Sunday to keep the series win streak alive. At worst they will split, meaning they haven't lost a series since they played Arizona on July 23rd.

Maybe more important will be a good outing by Zambrano, who has only one win in August and didn't make it to the fifth inning in his last start.

8/29/08 vs Phillies; W 3-2; (85-50)

There is no I in TEAM.

Mark DeRosa, in the midst of a hitting streak, was asked to sacrifice in his last at bat. He was still without a hit in one official at bat, having walked twice, and the Cubs already led 3-2. Like a good team mate he did his job, advancing runners to second and third with no one out. The hitting streak is over at ten games. Rubbing salt in the wound, neither runner scored.

However, I bet if you interview Mark DeRosa, the comment falls in the "I just want to do everything I can to help the team. Individual stats don't matter, the team won and that's what is important." category.

Rich Harden set the Phillies up for this one. Much like Dempster yesterday, he struggled early with control and let the Phillies feel in charge up 2-0 after 4.5 innings. He had allowed three hits and four walks while striking out only five. At that point, Chicago had Philadelphia right where they wanted them.

Mark DeRosa led off the fifth with a walk. He stole second, his sixth stolen base of the season, and advanced to third on Henry Blanco's infield single. He scored on Daryle Ward's ground out. Sound familiar? Another run scored with no balls leaving the infield.

In the sixth, Phillies Starter Joe Blanton ran into trouble. He walked Theriot to lead off the inning and followed that up with a walk to Derek Lee. The stage was set for Aramis again, but on a 3-1 pitch he hit a shallow fly ball for the first out. Mark DeRosa walked and that ended the game for Blanton. Former Cub Scott Eyre came on (thinking of his World Series share) and walked Kosuke to tie the game up. Good thing he did too, or Ryan Theriot's family may be making funeral arrangements. With Theriot on third, Blanton bounced one to the plate. It was blocked, but still kicked clear to the wall. Theriot's first move was back to third, and he wasn't able to score. I could read Lou's lips following the play. Let's just say he wasn't real happy. And I didn't know Jesus' middle name rhymed with clucking.

In the seventh, Jeff Samardizja pitched for Chicago. He ran into some trouble, but was aided by a questionable (come on I'm a Cub fan, I am not going to say bad call) at first on Ryan Howard's ground ball to end the inning with no damage. That put him in position for the win should Chicago score in their half of the seventh.

And why wouldn't they score with Sarge singing the seventh inning stretch....even with the Bernie Mac hat on. With one out, Alfonso Soriano hit a home run to center field to give the Cubs the lead.

Carlos Marmol relieved Shark with one out in the eighth. He struck out both batters he faced in the eighth. He pitched the ninth as well to earn his seventh save of the year, picking up one more K.

8/28/08 vs. Phillies; W 6-4; (84-50)

Do you believe!?

Do you believe!?

I was ready to let this one go. I was preparing myself for a loss, which is going to happen against the Phillies at some point in this series. I wasn't happy about it, but I was prepared. Then Randy Hundley joined Len & Bob in the TV booth, and two home runs later....what can you say?

This post was going to be about Ryan Dempster not having his best stuff, but working through it to only give up one run. This post was going to be about Mark DeRosa tripling to extend his hitting streak to ten games and tying the game in the process.

Philadelphia wouldn't let that happen. They scored and scored again following DeRosa's game tying triple and had a 4-1 lead heading into the bottom of the eighth. I don't know where the post was going at that point.

Then Mike Fontenot pinch hit and went yard. Little Mikey Fontenot. Muscled up and went deep. Alfonso followed with a double. "I like how this is going" I told my wife. Ryan Theriot hit...guess what...a single to right field. First and third no one out. Derek Lee draws a walk. Bases loaded, no out, Aramis Ramirez at the plate. The only thing we no for sure, he isn't going to hit a three run homer. No, instead he hits a NO DOUBT grand slam. The Phillies center fielder barely turned around, much less moved towards the ball.

Just like that...a three run deficit is turned into a two run lead in only five hitters. What else can this team do. They win yesterday with two runs in an inning when only one ball is hit out of the infield. They win today with a grand slam in the eighth inning, following a pinch hit home run.

Zambrano throws poorly, they win. Marquis throws great, they win. Dempster is so so, they win. I don't know what else to say....Cubs Win! and Win! and Win!

Next year can wait!

8/27/08 @ Pittsburgh; W 2-0; (83-50)

Mark DeRosa extended his hitting streak to nine games. After his first hit, he advanced to third on a single by Marquis, but he was stranded there. Later in the game, he followed a bunt single by Reed Johnson with a double to put runners at second and third with no one out. Johnson scored on a groundout by Ronny Cedeno. DeRosa scored on a squeeze bunt by Henry Blanco.

Read that closely. Chicago scored two runs in an inning when only one ball left the infield. Two runs by Reed Johnson and Mark DeRosa driven in by Ronny Cedeno and Henry Blanco. Are we missing something? Isn't this the team with Soriano, Lee and Ramirez? Don't forget Soto. I've said it before, this is a team that is deep. They can win with a variety of players and in a variety of ways. Today was small ball.

Who pitched today for Chicago? Couldn't have really been Jason Marquis in that #21 jersey. Seven innings, no runs, no walks and only five hits. That isn't the second half Jason Marquis I have railed against more than once.

Credit these guys when coming up big when the team needs them. It isn't like Johnson and DeRosa are bench guys....no, they play most every day. And they come up with big hits frequently. But Cedeno and Blanco....and Marquis! If this isn't the year.......

Speaking of the year...it was 1945. The last time Chicago played in a World Series. Also the last time Chicago was 33 games above .500, until today!

It gets harder from here on out. Other than a weekend series against the Reds, all of the remaining opponents are .500 or better. So we won't start talking magic number yet. I want to, but I won't. The Brewers aren't going anywhere and we have them six times in the last two weeks. Chicago is 18-6 in August and the Brewers have a chance to match that record with a win tonight against St. Louis. They won't go away!

One win in the series against Philadelphia secures Chicago's best month of 2008. They'll get at least two, probably three. That would put them at 35 games over .500. It would also set the stage for a 100 win season.

8/26/08 @ Pittsburgh; W 14-9; (82-50)

Maybe we should title this post every101years! Chicago's ninth straight series win is an accomplishment not equalled since 1907! That was a World Series Championship year as well. The 32 games above .500 takes us back to late season 1984 to find a comparable record. This is some kind of team.

Watching the game on WGN, I hear Len Casper say in the seventh inning that he isn't worried. He mentions how good the team is playing and that in the time he has been the broadcast voice, he has never had this confidence. At the time, the Pirates lead 8-7 courtesy of two runs in the bottom of the sixth.

Chicago had gotten an early lead again, courtesy of Geovonty Soto. His bases clearing double put them ahead in the fourth. His solo home run in the sixth broke a 6-6 tie. Carlos Zambrano just couldn't hold the lead tonight, and left before finishing the fifth inning. If there is any concern on this team, it would be Z's last few outings. They haven't been the most productive of his career to say the least.

Len Casper probably won't be compared to the great prophets of the bible, but last night he was right on. The Cubs scored as many runs in the eighth as they had all game to put this one out of reach.

Two runs were courtesy of bases loaded walks. Then Reed Johnson singled to put the Cubs up by two runs. That brought Geovony Soto to the plate. I neglected to mention earlier, his home run broke the tie he had with Randy Hundley for most home runs by a Cubs rookie catcher. His 20 on the season is the most for ANY rookie catcher since Mike Piazza did it in 1993.

Geo did it again. His second bases loaded double of the night gave him seven rbi and put the game out of reach. He scored on Mike Fontenot's double just for good measure.

Carlos Marmol pitched a perfect eighth. I just throw that in there because he is on my fantasy team. Kerry Wood struggled a little in the ninth allowing a run. He did end up striking out the side to finish off Pittsburgh.

Lost in this comeback win was Mark DeRosa. He had two hits on the night before being pulled for a double switch in the sixth. That extends his hitting streak to eight games. He's on my fantasy team too.

Life is good right now if you are a Chicago Cub fan. The only thing that would be better is if the Brewers could manage to lose a game here and there. They have matched the Cubs at 7-3 over the last ten games and just won't go away. I am actually rooting for the Cardinals (it hurts, it hurts) to win a couple while they are playing Milwaukee.

8/25/08 @ Pittsburgh; W 12-3; (81-50)

What can you say about a 12-3 drubbing of the Pirates? Chicago is 12-4 this season against Pittsburgh and came out swinging Monday night. Soriano, Lee, Edmonds and Fukudome EACH had three hits on the night. Aramis Ramirez hit another three run homer.

Chicago chased Jeff Karstens, who had shut out Chicago at Wrigley earlier this year, before the fourth inning. His replacement didn't do much better as the Cubs had jumped out to a 10-1 lead by the fifth inning.

For Edmonds, it was a nice end to his recent slump. For Fukudome, it was a tribute to the tutelage of Sweet Lou. Nice to see he can hit on the road too.

Ted Lilly went seven, allowing for an easy inning of work for Howry and Wood. It was a good win. Now we move on. Chicago has to win these games and they did. Making them look easy is just a bonus.

8/24/08 vs Nationals; W 6-1; (80-50)

First team to 80 wins. 30 games above .500 for the first time this year. Baseball is certainly a numbers game and Chicago is posting good numbers. Here are a few more from today's win against the Nationals.

4....Straight games Mark DeRosa has hit a home run

6...Game hit streak for Mark DeRosa. He has ten hits in the six game homestand and is hitting .435 in that stretch.

8....Consecutive series wins by Chicago

9....Kosuke Fukudome hit his ninth of the season today. His first extra base hit since August 6th. It came in a pinch hitting appearance in the seventh.

11...Strikeouts by Rich Harden, tying a career high. He has hit double digit strike outs five times as a Cub. He only did it twice playing for Oakland.

19...Home runs this season (one today) by Geovony Soto tying a Cub record for rookies. I am sure he will surpass Randy Hundley before the end of the year.

The Cubs are certainly firing on all cylinders right now. Five more weeks to go, can they keep up this pace? I certainly think so. The depth of this team can help keep them fresh. Guys can get a day off and have someone else pick up the slack. That should help them stay fresh through the last 32 games and into the post season.

Next up is a brief road trip to Pittsburgh.

8/23/08 vs Nationals; W 9-2; (79-50)

Chicago responded, especially Aramis Ramirez, to their worst drubbing of the season. Ramirez led the way with two three run long balls. He added a single to lead the team with three hits. His six RBI was his most since September 21st of last year, when he hit two three run homers. He has been picking up the slack lately with 15 rbi in his last ten games.

Overshadowed by Ramirez' offensive output was Ryan Dempster. He held Washington scoreless, allowing only four hits and one walk through 6 2/3 innings. With two out in the seventh he finally allowed consecutive base hits and a run. In the eighth he was chased after another base hit and a hit batsmen. His effort was needed after yesterday's bullpen work.

Chicago had everyone contributing today. Ryan Theriot had three hits. Mark DeRosa went yard for the third time in three days. He also had a single for another multi hit game. Locked in is an understatement for him. Reed Johnson had a couple hits, while Derek Lee and Alfonso Soriano each had only one hit, but both drove in runs.

Chicago will go for their eighth straight series win tomorrow with none other than Rich Harden on the hill. They should need to score a half a run to win.

8/23/08 vs Nationals; L 5-13; (78-50)

The Washington Nationals rank dead last in runs scored. The Chicago Cubs are top five in least runs allowed. But there is a reason they play the games. Washington erupted for 13 runs, a season high allowed by Chicago, to defeat the Cubs in the series opener.

Jason Marquis was staked to an early 4-0 lead. Through five innings he held the Nationals scoreless and had allowed only a walk and two singles. His sixth inning was a little rougher. An infield single and two walks loaded the bases with no out. A sac fly was followed by a double to cut the lead to two runs, with the tying runs in scoring position and one out.

Neil Cotts was called on for relief. He walked the first batter and then gave up a grand slam to Willie Harris. That would prove to be all the runs Washington needed, but they added one off Bob Howry and six off Chad Guadin for good measure.

Chicago did manage ten hits, with Lee and DeRosa each getting home runs to help the Cubs to the early lead. For Lee, it was his first home run since July 27th. DeRosa's was his second in as many days. His hot hitting continues and he has a career high in rbi this year with a month left in the season.

Chicago still maintains the best record in baseball as the Angels lost as well. Their NL Central lead slipped a game as both the Brewers and Cardinals won. Chicago will have to take two in a row to keep their series win streak alive. With Dempster and Harden on the mound in the next two starts it shouldn't be a problem. Especially with Washington wasting all their runs in one day.

8/21/08 vs Reds; W 3-2; (78-49)

Chicago won it's seventh consecutive series Thursday with a 3-2 victory over the Reds. Their record is 17-5 during that stretch. They have increased their NL Central lead by 4.5 games and passed the LA Angels for the best record in baseball.

Thursday was Carlos Zambrano's day. He picked up his thirteenth win of the season and his fourth home run of the season. It was easily his best outing in the month of August. He went seven innings and gave up only one run. He picked up his first win in his last four decisions.

The Cubs scored early when Soriano led off the first with walk. Theriot's single advanced him to third. He scored on a double play ground out by Derek Lee.

Mark DeRosa added another run with a solo shot in the second inning. It was his fifteenth of the season, extending his career high. His is 11 of 31 in his last ten games with nine rbi and ten runs scored.

Zambrano's home run in the third ended the scoring for Chicago. Cincinnati chipped away at the lead with solo home runs by Bruce and Votto in the sixth and eighth respectively. Kerry Wood came in to pick up his 26th save pitching a perfect ninth inning with two strikeouts.

The Chicago Cubs have definitely hit a hot streak. They are finding ways to win and haven't lost back to back games since July 26th. Surely they will come back to earth in September. Let's just hope it isn't a crash, just a return to .600 baseball.

8/20/08 vs. Reds; L 1-2; (77-49)

Ted Lilly threw seven innings allowing only two hits and two walks. Unfortunately, two runs scored off those two hits. Both were lead off doubles and the Reds managed to move them around to score both times.

Chicago only scored one run on three hits...two by Mark DeRosa...all night. Bronson Arroyo threw 116 pitches through seven innings, but kept Chicago at bay. Two relievers combined for two perfect innings to close the game. They only had to throw 22 pitches.

Chicago's only two threats, in the third and fourth innings, were ended by double plays. They had two runners on in each inning. Ramirez and Soto were the double play victims, both good men to have up in a spot to drive in runs. It just wasn't Chicago's night.

8/19/08 vs. Reds; W 5-0; (77-48)

On the way up to Wrigley, we figured we were in for a pitcher's duel. We arrived to find the wind blowing in. That aided both Harden and Cueto, and the game was scoreless through four and a half innings.

Chicago finally broke through in the fifth. A lead off triple by Soto set the stage for a Harden sacrifice to score Soto.

Harden went seven scoreless innings giving up only two hits. He was pulled for a pinch hitter in the seventh. He earned his third win and struck out ten for the third time. He didn't walk a single batter all night.

The Cubs needed that kind of effort since Cueto battled valiantly for seven innings. He worked out of a lead off double by Theriot. After Chicago scored, he stranded a runner on third with one out.

In the eighth Chicago broke thee game open. Six of the first seven hitters reached base giving the Cubs four more runs.

Lee, Ramirez, and Fukudome all drove in runs in the eighth putting the game out of reach.

Kerry Wood warmed up for the save, but by the time he entered the game it wasn't a save situation any more. He struck out two and closed out the Reds.

The fans reveled in a home stand opening win singing Go Cubs Go for twenty minutes after the game.

8/17/08 @ Florida; W 9-2; (76-48)

Alabama once sang "You Can't Keep A Good Man Down." Well, this Chicago Cubs roster is full of good men. So while the Florida Marlins held Chicago scoreless through six innings, the good men rose up in the seventh.

Trailing by two runs, and having managed only four hits, the Cubs sent twelve batters to the plate. They scored eight runs on five hits to take a commanding lead. Alfonso Soriano tied the game with a double. Aramis Ramirez gave Chicago the lead with a two run double of his own. Following a sac fly by Fukudome, Reed Johnson hit a bases clearing double, driving in three runs.

For Johnson it was his third hit of the game, on his way to a four for five day. He was hitting .480 for August...coming into today. He raised that average to .533 with his four knocks today! I sure am glad we picked him and Jim Edmonds up instead of Felix Pie. For more on that, check out all star center fielder Reed Edmonds.

Ryan Dempster was the beneficiary of the high scoring seventh inning. Still the pitcher of record, he earned the win, his fourteenth of the season. That's good for the team lead and fourth in the NL. He picked up ten strikeouts on the day to pass team mate Ted Lilly.

The win ties the Cubs with the Angels for the most wins in the entire major league. It also caps a 5-1 road trip. They are 11-4 in August, and are on pace for their best month of the season. As I said yesterday, the remainder of the month holds a very promising schedule for Chicago. A 20 win month is within their grasp.

8/16/08 @ Florida; L 1-2; (75-48)

Four guys who normally don't see their names in the starting lineup all did on Saturday. Sean Marshall was called upon for a spot start. Henry Blanco gave Geovony Soto a day off and Darlye Ward did the same for Derek Lee. Aramis was again held out of the lineup, we'll call Mike Fontenont the replacement. (DeRosa actually played third, with Fontenot at second base)

So Chicago looked to extend their winning streak with less than 60% of their normal lineup. It didn't happen, but it was close. Chicago played a 2-1 loss with multiple chances at pulling the game out.

The four "non-starters" all did their part. Sean Marshall had a career high eight strikeouts as he threw five solid innings. His battery mate, Blanco, hit a solo home run to tie the game in the fourth. Mike Fontenot singled and walked. He was inches from squeaking through a bases loaded grounder that would have scored two runs. Daryle Ward did go without a hit, but reached base once on a walk.

Chicago actually outhit the Marlins eight to four, but Florida's hits were just more timely. Hanley Ramirez led off the game with a home run to give Florida the early lead. In the fifth, Cody Ross had a two out single to score the eventual game winning run, who had reached on a walk.

Soriano was the on base leader with two hits and a base on balls. Theriot reached twice on walks, and both Fontenot and Fukudome had a base hit and a free pass. The clutch hitting just wasn't there tonight. Reed Johnson might be the exception. With two outs in the seventh, and runners at first and second, he singled. Why Mike Quade didn't try to score Soriano baffles me.

Mike Fontenot had another chance besides his bases loaded at bat. He ended the game with runners on first and second. He took a called third strike that sure looked to be well outside.

Regardless, the Cubs will persevere. They got some rest for their starters and will return to action today with Dempster on the mound. I am confident they will leave Florida with another win and head home for an off day. They will finish the month with 9 of 12 at home and 9 of 12 against sub .500 teams. My prediction, they will finish August 30 games above .500.

8/15/08 @ Florida; W 6-5; (75-47)

Daryle Ward has only had eleven games this season where he has come to the plate more than once. He has been called on to pinch hit most of the season, and it hasn't gone real well for him. He is hitting only .217 and had driven in only ten runs going into Florida. His home run last night may make him forget all that.

The Cubs trailed 3-5 going into the ninth. Neither team had scored since Mark DeRosa's two run homer in the fourth. The inning led off with a walk to DeRosa from Florida's closer, Kevin Gregg. Mike Fontenot lined out to third on a great play. The ball was absolutely smoked for what looked to be a double in the corner, but was caught by a diving Florida third baseman. Reed Johson then singled to bring up the pitcher's spot, in which Daryle Ward was asked to fill in. He absolutely crushed a ball to right field for a three run game winning home run. Zambrano congratulated him in the dugout both for winning the game and saving him from a loss.

Zambrano actually started the scoring, singling to score DeRosa in the second inning. His lead didn't last long as the Marlins tied it in the second and blew it open in the third. Control was the issue as Z allowed three walks in the inning to go along with a home run and triple.

DeRosa, 1 for 1 on the night with three walks, three runs, and two rbi, closed the gap just a little bit with his 14th homer of the season. Then the pitchers took over on both sides. Chad Guadin pitched two perfect innings to earn the win. Kerry Wood allowed a walk, but struck out two to pick up his 25th save on the season.

The win extends Chicago's winning streak to five, their road winning streak to nine, and their NL Central lead to 5.5 games. Everyone on the roster is contributing. When Chicago can win a come from behind game in which Aramis Ramirez doesn't play, and Derek Lee doesn't get on base....doesn't it seem like this is our year!

8/14/08 @ Atlanta; W 11-7;(74-47)

Chicago narrowly avoided a skirmish in the sixth when Ted Lilly drillled Yunel Escobar. The game itself wasn't as close.

The Cubs continued their recent trend of scoring early and often. In sweeping the Braves, they managed 29 runs. They also managed to win their fifth series in a row and extend their lead to 4.5 games.

Other than trying to pick a fight, Lilly piced up his twelfth win while racking up eight strikeouts.

Aramis Ramirez had three runs batted inn to lead the way for Chicago. Fukudome, hitting second picked up two hits for the second consecutive game. Derek Lee had a pair, making our 3,4,5 hitters 6 of 12 on the night.

The Cubs head to Florida with their longest road win streak since 1945. They have five more to go to beat that mark.

8/13/08 @ Atlanta; W 8-0; (73-47)

The Cubs took the second game of the double header in easy fashion. Do you know the last time the Cubs swept a double header on the road? Go ahead...say it...1908! Yes, every time we look at the record books, the Cubs seem to be matching events from one hundred years ago.

This one started even better than the first game. While the Cubs jumped out to 4-0 leads in both, it only took one inning this game to get to that mark. Even better than that, Kosuke Fukudome drove in two runs with a single in the first inning. That was his first hit in five games. He added another hit later and hopefully will start working his way out of the slump.

Rich Harden threw two hit ball through five innings. He even worked himself out of a self made jam in the third. With two outs he walked three consecutive Braves to load the bases. But he induced a Casey Kotchman groundout to end the inning with no damage. He picked up just his second win in a Chicago uniform while blanking his opponent for the second time in his six starts.

The Cubs added some unnecessary insurance in the ninth, scoring three runs off the Braves bullpen. Aramis Ramirez and Ryan Theriot each had two hits in each game to lead the way for Chicago. Geovony Soto managed three hits in just the one game he played. Soto, Ramirez, and Edmonds were the big run producers on the day, combining for ten rbis.

The Cubs maintain a 3.5 game lead over the surging Brewers at this point. Milwaukee has won eight in a row and ten of twelve since being swept by the Cubs. Chicago has won eight out of eleven in that same stretch, preventing the Brewers from getting any closer.

The sweep also guarantees another series win for Chicago, keeping them perfect in the month of August. They will send Ted Lilly to the mound in the final game of the series and try for the sweep before heading down to Florida.

8/13/08 @ Atlanta; W 10-2; (72-47)

In the opening game of a double header...making up yesterday's washout...the Cubs jumped to an early lead and poured it on.

Geovony Soto got things started with a two run double in the second. Jim Edmonds tacked on two more in the third with his 16th home run of the year. That's sixteen in less than 300 at bats as a Cub. Not bad for a guy we pay the veteran minimum. He doubled in the fifth to drive in another run. Mark DeRosa followed that up with a double of his own to plate Edmonds.

Jason Marquis was moved up to this start, Harden would have gone yesterday. He pitched into the sixth allowing only two runs to pick up the win. Cotts, Samardizja and Howry pitched in to keep the Braves scoreless for the remainder of the game.

Geovony Soto added a home run, his eighteenth, in the ninth to pad the lead and put the Cubs into double figures.

It was the Cubs sixth straight road win. Not bad for a team that has had trouble winning at all on the road this year.

8/10/08 vs Cardinals; W 6-2; (71-47)

Ryan Dempster shut down the Cardinals for six innings on Sunday night. His offense had spotted him a one run lead in the second, but had failed to cross the plate again since. In the sixth inning, they managed to add an insurance run and then some.


With one run in, Adam Kennedy's error not only botched a double play, but allowed Chicago to go on and score four more runs in the inning. Three consecutive hits following the error plated three runs and extended the lead to 6-0.


Dempster ran into trouble in the seventh and allowed two runs. He yielded to Jeff Samardizja to face Pujols, who drove in the second run with a double. Samardizja struck out Mather for the final out of the inning.


The last three innings were scoreless on both sides, as the Cubs picked up the rubber game of the series. They have now won four straight series and are 12 - 5 since returning from their west coast trip. Included in that stretch, they are 6-1 against the Cards and Brewers. Their lead increased from one game to four over the two plus weeks. It got me thinking, what is different about this team than Cubs teams from the past.

When I was at the game Saturday, listening to the lineup, what struck me most about this team is the depth. While Tony LaRussa chooses to hit his pitcher eighth, we were hitting rookie of the year candidate Geovony Soto. The worst hitter (year to date average) in the lineup was Jim Edmonds.

Sunday was typical of that depth. Soriano, Ramirez, and Soto each had two hits. DeRosa and Cedeno each had two RBI. And Derek Lee had a hit, a run, and an rbi. Top to bottom there isn't an easy out in this lineup. Theriot is the only hitter you would question getting an extra base hit when needed, but he leads the team in average. He will at least get you to the next hitter.

More and more this appears to be the year.