Cubs Loyalty

New wave with flair hits Chicago, young movement in effect

2013-07-19T09:53:00.002-04:00

The tradition is Chicago is not far from realistic with the goals for the season. Management looks to turn a new leaf. The adjustments so far with the overall batting order is okay. No one expects the Cubs to make a drive for 2nd place. Too many key decisions have yet to be made. Anthony R-i-z-z-o can't stop his adrenaline rush for a better batting season. His improvement since joining the Cubs from the Padres is beyond satisfactory with 54 RBIs up to July (that's no lie). Passion is not left Wrigley Field just the same. Opposing fans have got stop the hate for this franchise.

Coming off a loss to their rivals, St. Louis 10-6 everything seems to be fine for a nice transition. The memory from 1989 doesn't grow old for Cubs fan with the playoff birth. Wait 'Til next year most loyal fans agree. The cards don't always have to be stacked against Cubby Blue as all in Chicago knew. The time to fight with a flair for the dramatic is fine as new trades can develop. The arguments about renovations to the Field's front aren't plausible. Soriano is a nice market player to receive a trade. Such a firm decision can make the Cubs' pave the way. In effect the Cubs have a boost in confidence.

Cubs lose sight in rebuilding, flourish in new lineup alignment

2013-07-12T05:35:00.000-04:00

Since a return to Chicago in the windy city the offense has took a new reproach to capture attention from fans. The usual slow development from the pitching staff is starting to turn around. All through the summer Chicago needs to display a high batting average in 2-out late game clutch situations. The overall defense is fine for what the Cubs are able to turn on the field through sharp groundballs. So far the lineup manages a clean demeanor with a better than average outlook for July. The runs per game at home is better now which is around 4-5 runs a game. Anthony Rizzo looks to be the best power solution and is ready for a big offensive transition. The first baseman needs speed with the bat to pick up the pace for runners on base.

Last night the franchise with the worst history for breakdowns took a nice turn against their rivals. St. Louis came up empty in a 3-0 conclusion at Wrigley Field. The big blow came from Anthony R-i-z-z-o with a clutch 3-RBI performance. This included a homerun (13) with a new appeal. Usual the wind comes in yet with a set way the Cubs make it through the day. Darwin Barney with his young meekness provides a fresh fill-in the lineup. The starter Edwin Jackson pitched a super suprise outing to defend with 7 big innings with only 3 hits to his credit. The rest for the series looks to be a admirable rivalry!

A real dispairing series concludes in St. Louis as blunderous Cubs drop 3-of-4 games

2013-06-21T07:31:00.000-04:00

AP Photo/Tom Gannam

The meeting in St. Louis didn't turn out to be a big clash. In fact the Cubs barely showed up to play in the 4-game series in which they lost 3 games. Last night before a huge partisan crowd nothing developed again on offense and with blunders on the field (Soriano fails to snatch routine catch as seen above) the result became a disappointing 6-1 loss. Plus only 5 total hits were tallied for the lineup with 6 LOB. Still that's not going to cut it no matter how well the starting pitching fairs. Scott Feldman (6-6) goes 5.1 innings to account for 5 earned runs on 6 hits and 4 walks. A definite bad outing for him. The previous day for Game 3 the Cubs managed just 2 hits in a 4-1 defeat.

To place Luis Valbuena in the lead-off spot is a mistake and proves to be useless. The part-time third baseman is hitting a pitiful .244 through 57 games played. The mighty struggles continue for Chicago at the plate. With Starlin Castro's OBP down and Anthony Rizzo without a homerun in over a month a good fit has yet to be discovered for a unproductive lineup. Due to failure to score with 2 outs where the Cubs success rate is around 13% is really hurting their chances to win. Also, there are at least 10 games where the losses have accumulated due to 1-run differences. Not in good faith can anybody rooting for this team get behind such crummy offensive outputs.

For any main positive change to occur the Cubs are in dire need to trade unworthy players, clogging up the roster and of course Alfonso Soriano who strikes out far more than he walks. This is the only chance for a mediocre ball club to actual begin to improve and later showcase their best prospects after being called up. With DeJesus out on the DL for a expected month the lead-off spot looks to a serious problem area. Somebody if not the middle of the order have to deliver at some point unless the Cubs want to falter far beyond their current 29-42 record. More than a miracle is required to get this team back on his feet.

Cubs open up road trip with a 6-3 victory over Mets, DeJesus injury a setback

2013-06-15T09:16:00.001-04:00

AP Photo by Frank Franklin II

Don't count out the Chicago Cubs just yet in the NL Central. Despite winning only around 10 games against division teams the Cubs have notched 2 wins in a row. After completing a victory at home against the Reds the Cubs marched into New York to win in a 6-3 final Friday night. The unlikely hero of this game: David DeJesus who scorched a 3-run triple in the 2nd inning off the Mets' Shawn Marcum. Unfortunate as bad luck surfaced as the Cubs' centerfielder crashed into the wall in center after attempting to make running catch and got injured. This is another setback for the Chicago team which now has Matt Garza back though on the DL still are relievers Shawn Camp and Kyuji Fukijawa.

  With a way to scrape for offense the Cubs' have not been potent against top winning percentage teams as manger Dale Sveum continues to swift around the outfield for results. At a 27-38 record such daily changes with the lineup won't matter much because when the Cubs don't score 4 or more runs first through the 5th inning the result for them is typically a loss.  Not much offense can be accounted for besides Anthony Rizzo who leads the team with 39 RBIs.  Run production needs to come from somewhere else. If Starlin Castro can start hitting again that will certainly be a positive factor.

Chicago can work on developing late inning rallies by practicing offensive strategies instead of hoping for the long ball to tie or win a game. The bench sometimes comes through by pinch hits from Ryan Sweeney, Dioneer Navarro, and Scott Hairston. This club has to utilize their speed and try hit-and-runs more often to score runs.  The ball club needs to work around their weaknesses (Such as striking out with runners in scoring position). They have a chance to reach up to 3 within .500 and go from there.

Good news for the bullpen is that the Cubs traded prospect pitcher Ian Dickson to the Nationals for right-handed reliever Henry Rodriguez. Finally a decent move made by management.   Cubs' fans would rather see a few new big bats come over in a blockbuster deal. Such a trade has yet to happen to swap out Alfonso Soriano remaining contract. The Cubs schedule looks to be troublesome after leaving New York as they meet the Cardinals away for 4 games then see the Astros, Brewers, and Mariners to close out the month. In the meantime a replacement will be needed in centerfield while DeJesus is out on the DL. Any extra offense available is a plus for this wounded, struggling baseball franchise.

Cubs secure comeback in extras over the Angels to prevail 8-6

2013-06-06T07:34:00.001-04:00

AP Photo/ Reed Saxon

After a decent short homestand where the Cubs won 3-of-5 games the club just completed a 2-game series in Anaheim. Last night Chicago, still hampering with injuries and spotty offense managed to defeat the Angels in a 10-inning affair. The 8-6 final was spurred by the bases being loaded and Anthony Rizzo delivering with a huge 3-run double. Sure he's hitting only .259, but he's proved to be the best offense for the Cubs. Kevin Greg came in late during the game to record his 2nd win in 1.1 innings on the mound. He allowed a earned run on 2 hits and a walk. The previous game in Anaheim showed the go-ahead 2-run blast by Albert Pujols was enough to beat the Cubs in a 4-3 outcome.

The overall progress is quite slow for the Cubs moving into June. Claiming 4th place in the Central nothing has worked to much success besides the starting pitching. Travis Wood so far is the team leader with 2.75 ERA and owns a 5-3 record. He will square off with the Pirates' Francisco Liriano (3-2) on Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field. If a big run explosion can occur again at home (such as with Dioneer Navarro's career 3-homerun game against the Sox) in the upcoming series then the Cubs can pick up some ground in their division. Yet without managing wins on the road nothing for the most part will change in the standings. For coach Dale Sveum to get the most out of his flip-flop batting order he must move Starlin Castro into the lead-off spot to spring up chances for runs and getting the young shortstop out of his slump.

With the two series for the return homestand the Cubs have got to churn out production and not allow the bullpen to have brief laspes or too many frequent Carlos Marmol appearances. The familiar scenery can help back at home yet the Cubs better bring the offense against the hot Pirates before seeing the Reds who are no slouches on run production either. Ryan Sweeney looks to be a viable candidate to get good starts in the outfield and can hit for a bit of power. Other than Schierholtz the rest of the outfield platoon sure is a total waste of energy and time. Even calling them 'juggernauts' fails to do justice to their absence timely hitting. Plus the next time Jeff Samardzija gets a start the lineup must manage to give good run support (at least 4 runs). If not a long, hot crummy summer continues in Chicago.

Cubs swept in Pittsburgh, continue to scuffle for effective offense

2013-05-24T14:00:00.002-04:00

The offense came up dry for the most part in a 3-game series against the Pirates on the road. Thursday the Cubs lost 4-2 after the Cubs lineup again came up short to deliver clutch hits with the game on the line. The previous back-back games in Pittsburgh the club got defeated by one run each time. Yesterday the Cubs lost due to Edwin Jackson (1-7) only going 3 innings and the lineup leaving 8 runners on base. That isn't going to lead to good run scoring ratios.

Chicago is struggling in May to win on the road as they slip to 18-28 with new players such as Sweeney and Ransom not able to lift the offense on their own. Rizzo along with Castro must step up big for the Cubs to get out of their 4-game slump. With the Reds up next it doesn't look to get easy for the uncertain Chicago franchise. Only maintaining around 2.5- 3 runs a game won't get it done. What a lousy season this is shaping up to be for the Cubs. It's past time to make deals happen for the Wrigleyville faithful to have a reason to truly cheer.

Tough 3-2 loss concludes Game 1 against Mets as Cubs look for new offense

2013-05-18T08:57:00.000-04:00

AP/Photo- Charles Rex Arbogast

The progress continues to be gradual for the underdeveloped Cubs. After taking a glance at the standings this team is not looking to change it's structure much at 17-24, creeping back to 9 games out of first place in the Central. Sure new pickups in outfielders Julio Borbon and Ryan Sweeney provide depth off the bench yet fails to solve the declining offensive run average (Only around 4 per game at home).   With a good series away in Washington last week the Cubs took 2-of-3 games as they experienced good breaks to drive in runs. This followed another decent series against Colorado on a return trip back home.

   The Cubs lost another close game Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field to the Mets, 3-2. Pitcher Matt Harvey just didn't leave the door open for many run scoring opportunties and had sharp command on the mound. On the flip side, Edwin Jackson wasn't able to hold the Mets' lineup in check long enough as he slumps to 1-6. He goes 6.2 innings to yield 3 earned runs off 7 hits and a walk. A single from David Dejesus almost scored a run in the 8th inning to force a tie game, but the runner from third got tagged out a couple feet near home plate. So far the Cubs have yet to utilize their speed still stranding plenty runners on base.

Far from potent the Cubs still attempt to find a reputable fill-in at third, using Cody Ransom to give Luis Valbuena games off here and there. Judging by the standstill management again in Chicago the club appears to be wait until July make any key market trades. What a waste to not bring up worthy prospect candidates who give at least develop and push along the rebuilding process more steadily. With the offense sure to continue the scuffle new additions (Borbon, Sweeney, and Ransom) have to deliver to aid in run support. If not the Cubs will have to send them on their way to another team or back to the minors. Next up for Chicago after the Mets for the upcoming road schedule are the Pirates and Reds. Let's at least expect for the starting pitchers to get enough offensive support for those series.

Homestand ends with a close 5-4 loss to Cardinals as Schierholtz double not enough

2013-05-09T07:51:00.000-04:00

AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

Another series at Wrigley Field concludes with the Cubs having a chance to win 3 in a row. After being sweep by the Reds the homestand looked to be bleak. After dusting off the Rangers in a 9-2 make-up game then the Cardinals 2-1 in a tight contested pitching duel the club leaves the Friendly Confines with a 4-6 stretch (bad breaks, untimely hitting). For the final game before going back on the road the Cubs lost another 1-run nail-biter to St. Louis, 5-4 Wednesday. Anthony Rizzo went 3-for-4 collecting a double and a run scored. The main offense came in the form of a 2-run double from Nate Schierholtz and a RBI groundout by Dioneer Navarro. The other run came from a throwing error which allowed Luis Valbuena to score from third base. Carlos Villaneavu receives a no-decision in the game after lasting 6.2 innings to rank up 3 earned runs on 7 hits and 3 walks.

The season begins to show the Cubs' inexperience as a group with their lack of execution. Nothing is working fast enough for this tired franchise who embarks on another road trip this weekend in Washington D.C. Coach Dale Sveum is going with his set game plan, relying on a day-to-day lineup which can't manage to close out tight games with clutch hits. Beyond the youth there is nobody who is going to deliver as veteran (forget about Soriano) or full-time leader. Sveum must need plenty aspirins in the clubhouse because he's got headaches for the long season schedule. Distractions about home field renovations don't affect the overall performance level and have become a higher priority than trade value for players to move.

At a 13-21 record the Cubs aren't showing they have the zeal to flourish anywhere. Such remains to be seen. As for the Nationals series Friday a wipeout may occur if the offense comes up clueless and empty before returning home to face two winning teams in the Rockies and Mets. Chicago needs to avoid getting swept again and refrain from allowing too much bullpen usage over the next 3 days. Today at least the team gets a day off and can rest to look at video in the clubhouse to see mistakes on the field and work on hitting strategies. A rebuilding process is what Cubs' fans have to put up with and the expected slumps at times in 2013. Hopefully the Cubs can make a decent turnaround to finish May near third place in the Central.

Hairston's long ball not enough to save game, Cubs split series against Padres

2013-05-02T20:29:00.001-04:00

AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

Well, the series back at Wrigley Field was short of amazing. The Cubs sure made a good outcome close for Game 4 against the Padres. Travis Wood pitched excellent until the 8th, where he must got maxed out on the pitch count to give up 3 earned runs with 4 totals hits for the game. Scott Hairston smacked a 2-run shot in the 7th, placing the Cubs on the scoreboard with a small cushion for support. That obviously dimished quick. A 11-17 record now can't be how the season moves along for this understaffed club. Sure the talent is missing too yet what's going to work half the time: starting pitching or random offense? The Cubs' prime opportunity to progress slips away by their unability to sweep San Diego. If management can't smell a trade by now then they've got their nostrils around too much revenue or mindsets' on goat head reminders which ruins their time for good decisions.

With performance evaluations not being handed out just yet and the team's progression sliding by at a snail's pace the odds appear to still be stacked high against the franchise. Sure the quality innings are being ranked up by starters: Samardzija, Wood, and Villaneuva with a good combined team ERA at .371. Then on the flip side, the lineup's overall batting average through just over a month is a meager .237. Nothing really so far is appealing about the Cubs (except Anthony Rizzo's 8 homeruns). There must be a resolution in Wrigley Field beyond the high cost renovations (with a potential move) planned for later in the off-season if not next year. Dave Suevm will try to switch the outfield around and strategize with the bullpen and manage defensive replacements, but everyone knows the offense is just not there.

Following up on the trade possibilities from a week ago, anyone who can hit for a top average or power is a plus. Another good firearm to add in the bullpen is fine too. Otherwise the Cubs might as well not get rid of rising prospects such as Jorge Soler and Javier Baez to fill a mere position which becomes unproductive again. The Cubs might as well get their money's worth for Soriano until he's willing to depart Chicago. Up next on the schedule is the Reds as they come to town then a make-up game follows with the Rangers before the Cubs end their homestand in a short series with the Cardinals. The only matchup worth watching is the last series of course. Depending on the starters the matchup shapes up to be another classic confrontation.

Multi-homeruns by Rizzo propels Cubs past Marlins 4-2 after leaving Cincinnati lackluster

2013-04-27T07:55:00.000-04:00

Mike Ehrmann/ Getty Images

Again, the game came down to the long ball plus the team which scored first to take the lead. The Cubs brush past the Marlins Friday night thanks to their only offense, Anthony Rizzo, who creamed two homeruns. He accounted for all the team's 4 runs. Although the lineup produced 10 total hits the first baseman proved to be the hero, tallying his 7th and 8th homerun.  Such a performance is good for the morale in the clubhouse.  Also, the starting pitching finally got a win in the decision too. Scott Feldman (1-3) went 6.2 IP to yield 2 ER, 7 H, and 2 BB while striking out 2 batters. The combined bullpen: Camp, Russell, and Gregg pitched good too, giving up just 2 hits. That is a far change from the previous week in Cincinnati and Milwaukee.

From reports in baseball news there are rumors going around about Alfonso Soriano being traded among other players. This isn't a suprise at all. The Cubs need to replace basically the entire outfield unless Schierholtz maintains his worth and can be used as a fill-in and hitter off the bench. Before July is the time to shop around by Cubs management. Soriano, Stewart, Marmol, and a couple extra young relievers can go! Too much money has already got wasted relying on unproductive (often injured) long-term contract players. Add a power stick in left or right field, a legitmate proven catcher and everything will be set to be fall in order for the offense to develop. If a trade is immiment in Wrigleyville soon it should be interesting to see what the Cubs do to freshen up the atmosphere for baseball.

   The way the bullpen has proven to be ineffective several times already the Cubs are fortunate their record isn't the worst in baseball. Well, at least not yet anyway. Every outing Carlos Marmol gets in relief makes fans want to cringe. He's not the prime choice to be the closer any longer. Shawn Camp's appeal is lowering as well. Just allowing enough hits to let close games slip away. As the Cubs played back-to-back extra inning games in Cincinnatti it was evident the Cubs' starting lineup can't be relied upon to pad a lead nor deliver clutch hits.

   It's no surprise the club is once again dealing with a struggle to produce big results. This is with the exception of the starting pitching which holds the 4th lowest ERA allowed coming into the final week to complete the first month for the season. That's not what irks Cubs' fans. The unbelievable amount of runners LOB and failure to score with the game in jeopardy plus the appearance of Carlos Marmol mainly causes the reaction. While Chicago sits at last place in the Central the rest of the NL just bides their time and cashes on the Cubs' lack of execution and confidence.

    To the Cubs credit though Thursday they grabbed a win over the low-ranked Marlins for Game 1 in a 4-3 final. This series seemed to be a toss-up with two last place teams squaring off. Chicago has now won at least two games. Nate Schierholtz cranked a homerun in Game 1 as did Luis Valbuena to cap the victory. What is an absolute blunder so far is how starter, Jeff Samardzija (1-4) can't even buy a win now. Complete lack of run support for poor Jeff. Hopefully, with any success in 2013 he will have a big turnaround in the second half. Either Chicago finds a way to drag themselves into third place or they continue discourage fans with a sluggish start.

Behind Samardzija Cubs fall to Brewers 4-3 after split series at Wrigley Field

2013-04-20T08:46:00.005-04:00

Photo by Mike McGinnis- Getty Images

Through just over 2 weeks the Cubs continue to show why they're still rebuilding at a 5-10 record. Friday night to start up another road trip the subpar exhibition was no different. With Jeff Samardzija going for his 4th start a turnaround looked to be in order. That wasn't the case as he pitched 7 innings to give up 4 earned runs on 6 hits and a walk. The two homeruns yielded hurt his chances of getting a win so he drops to 1-3 on the season. There has to be a balance at a point where the Cubs can hang on long enough with effective starting pitching or decisive offense.  Last night the club hit 3 homeruns (DeJesus 2, Vilbuena 2, and Rizzo 5). Still the efforts weren't enough to seal a victory.

  For the past week Chicago has lost 4 games by only a run. They split the series back at home against the Rangers after a postponed rainout before leaving for Milwaukee.  The offense is showing life again, but what a lousy waste of leads thrown away by the bullpen. With Shawn Camp, Fukijawa (15-DL), or Marmol it's hard to tell what's going to be problematic with the game on the line. Already the pen has came out shaky with no good reliablity. Carlos Villanueva so far has the best ERA at 1.29. The team needs to be moves made to get rid of some relievers and bench players in order for some darn good results.

The only main offensive attack guy now is Nate Schierholtz who is maintaining a surprise .988 OPS and a .326 batting average. To not build on this is a mistake. With limited run production the road schedule will only get more tough for the Cubs.  At best to utilize speed on the bases with several hit-and-runs can be the answer for a short while.  Since there is such little power in the lineup Chicago must play at smart, not have 10 or more LOB per game by being persistent with runners in scoring position when they manage such. Coming up on the schedule as the Cubs try to avoid major letdowns and mediocrity are the Reds and the Marlins on the road. The bats have to produce or else it's time to ship players away after they hit the showers.

Cubs routed 7-6 by Giants, lineup evolves with capability as Rizzo homers

2013-04-12T08:26:00.000-04:00

Photo- John Biever SI

Small ball with efficient starting pitching leads to okay homestand except for the loss yesterday, 7-6 seems unfathomable. The Cubs held a 5-0 lead into the 5th inning against the Giants only to allow such a extra cushion to slip away after that. Early on Anthony Rizzo smashes his 3rd homerun off Ryan Vogelsong to put Chicago ahead. Starlin Castro scored a run in the second inning as he went 2-for-5. Everything appeared to turning around for the offense as 17 total runs have accounted for during the homestand. Although the Cubs were outhit 12-9 Thursday the lineup is overall taking shape. Nick Schierholtz is the team leader in batting average at .370 so far, managed 3 hits in the loss.

Scott Feldman (0-2) went just 4.1 innings allowing 6 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks. A few errors though were made in the game on routine plays which also impacted the final score. With better days ahead most favoring the Cubs want to see a permanent starting roation as some point. The Matt Garza (injury) situation is still unclear on whether or not he's going to be traded. Management is in dire consequences later this season if they don't find suitable replacements in the outfield for at least two spots. Without a potent lift there nothing will change much with the expected team record. Now the Cubs are 3-6 and have won only 1-of-3 at Wrigley Field.

The previous games this week showed the Cubs getting past the Brewers 6-3 in Game 2 after the disappointing 7-4 outcome on April 8. Then the game was postponed Wednesday due to rain. For who the Cubs' have right now on field and those on the injured list the performance is okay. Another strong or reliable bat off the bench sure could help. At least to switch around at third base or the outfield. Other than such soluble options Chicago must trod along and find ways for improved production in the coming weeks.

Today Carlos Villaneauva (0-0) takes the mound against the Giants' Matt Cain (0-1). This shapes up to be a tough game for Chicago. Don't expect the Cubs to score much today as the Giants' hurler probably will have good command and maintain a quality pitch count. It may take an near equal pitching display on the Cubs' end to come close.

Cubs claim 2013 opening series in Pittsburgh, avoid near meltdown late in Game 3

2013-04-05T06:57:00.002-04:00

AP Photo- Gene J. Puskar

Thanks to homeruns from Anthony Rizzo in Game 1 (3-1 win) and a significant one from newcomer Nate Schierholtz in Game 3 late the Cubs managed to win 2-of-3 from the Pirates to kick the season off right. Starlin Castro knocked in a run with a single in yesterday's 3-2 victory also to help the cause. Let's not forget about the starting pitching either which rendered 2 total runs for the series. Fine outings by Jeff Samardzija (7 innings: 2 H, 0 ER, 9 K's) on opening day and then Travis Wood (1-0, allowed one hit in 6 IP) Thursday allows Chicago to earn a 2-1 record to start the season. The only loss came the previous day with a 3-0 shutout with basically no offensive production.

Less hitting for the most part revolved around the first series on the road. Chicago must work to achieve a 4-run average each game. That is a decent goal to start with for the lineup. The worst issue to notice though came in the 9th inning for Game 3 with Carlos Marmol again, who came in close and caused a near diaster. He pitched uncertain to yield 2 runs across the plate. Other than pitching to Andrew McClutchen the reliever should've had nothing to worry about. He is a lost cause for the team with several bad closing appearances in 2012. As luck went the Cubs way they managed to get a double play to end the game, 3-2.

As far as the outfield goes for now there needs to be another tremendous bat added in either left or right field. Judging from the marginal hits in 3 games Cubs management can work to pull off at least one big trade. Third base needs a good replacement when the time comes later this year. If anything the team can go out and pick up more than a ulility player to cover the spots Chicago lacks offense the most. Why not look for someone like Raul Ibanez, Corey Hart, or even a Jose Bautista caliber type position player? The starting pitching won't be able to endure all the time so it's worth making an early move. So far the club looks okay to play small ball behind effective starters. Still management needs to ship Marmol, DeJesus, and possibly Soriano somewhere to get any good value before it's too late. The Cubs match-up with Atlanta for a 3-game series starting Friday where the bats may come up in short supply.

The Cubs’ new additions with the projected effect in 2013

2013-03-30T21:05:00.000-04:00

   With the season set to get underway the Cubs have found a couple decent acquisitions for 2013. Still there is bad news to report. Though he was signed in the off-season, pitcher Scott Baker will miss ample months (the season perhaps) due to Tommy John injury. The lack of another good starter will put a small damper on the rotation. To push some kind of spark into the lineup offensively Chicago has outfielder Scott Hairston and catcher Dioneer Navarro (17 RBIs in 22 games for Spring Training). To add depth off the bench the Cubs also have outfielder/infielder Brent Lillibridge. He’s decent though won’t put up good enough offensive numbers. Yet without a power bat at least at third base the Cubs presumably will scuffle again at the plate.

Having nobody known yet for proper consistency hitting except for Starlin Castro (.323 on base percentage- 2012) the Cubs seem destined to strand many runners or fail to drive them in with scoring opportunities. Possibly having Castro who managed 183 hits in 2012 as the lead-off might open up better chances for run production. If there is a positive growing development then it has to Anthony Rizzo who finished 2012 with 15 homeruns plus 48 RBI while taking over duties at first base. For the Cubs to sit back and rely on starting pitching again is another big mistake. This one-minded approach will rule them out in the NL Central. Ultimately, it will lead to big disappointing losses in an unfavorable season. Such a disparity bothers the true Cubs’ fans out there who know the, “Let’s get some runs” line during the 7th inning stretch doesn't happen near enough.

   The wheels need to turn well in the ownership and GM obligations part for the franchise. Management has to consider better options in 2013. With lack of depth and health there will be other ways to drive in runs. Of course, Dale Sveum will return for his second season and looks to push the club past a sub-par record, around a .425
winning percentage if not better. He’ll likely be able to switch the lineup around and rotate outfielders throughout the season schedule.

   Winning, anyone would think now is essential after such a terrible finish in back-to-back seasons. Still the effective components for success as a gradual contender just aren’t there. Plus there is still a big void at third base with Ian Stewart out again on the DL to start the season. By not seriously going out to pick up a guy who’s proven at the plate such as Ryan Zimmerman or Alex Gordon the batting average within the lineup for runners in scoring position will be low for Chicago. This club can hope all they want with chemistry as starter Jeff Samardzija (9-13, 3.81) kicks off the season opener Monday at Pittsburgh.

Off-season pick-ups which leaves Wrigleyville wanting better

2012-11-25T18:38:00.001-05:00

After a terrible season the Cubs go out and acquire a new pitcher in Dan Haren and veteran catcher Dioneer Navarro. Sure they're both credible players with good potential yet where on earth are the big-time signings? Waiting around until February, about the time Spring Training begins to make any major moves isn't going to cut it. The decimal offense is almost always in question. What does Cubs management plan to do about that? Don't run the risk by putting all the pressure on the new rotation until a starter or two get injured. Trying to piece together a low market level of players won't build much strength and ample depth to an already mediocre roster right now. Chicago might as well fill the void at third base and pick up a power bat for the outfield. Oh, the club did sign yet ANOTHER pitcher in Scott Baker for a one-year contract. That seems to be okay to aid the rotation. Still Baker was injured the entire 2012 season. Fans get the point by now with the pitching. Making the Cubs flourish in any way, however will take extra hitting off the bench and enough pop combined into a respectable lineup. Until Spring Training the Wrigley faithful will see what other probably useless, impractical managerial decisions will be made.

Cubs near 100 losses for season, Rizzo and Castro remain gems beyond the total humility

2012-09-29T06:45:00.000-04:00

AP Photo/Matt York

To admit the Cubs have endured the worst record in over 5 seasons is a shame yet true. Closing in on 100 losses in 2012 the franchise has put too much time in lollygagging to piece together an unnamable and incomplete, poorly executing lineup in Wrigleyville. Sighs and complaints from the numerous fan base doesn’t seem to do much justice. New ownership from Jed Hoyer and Theo Epstein have the team spinning in the wrong direction still. Instead of bringing new prospects from the minors to fill spots in a lineup the least the management team can do is acquire veteran leaders with enough pop in their bat plus find real quality, durable pitching. Trading away veteran starters, Ryan Dempster and Geovany Soto to Texas in July was a big mistake. The ball club had no one reliable to go to for big results or effective leadership (As Reed Johnson plus Paul Maholm departed to Atlanta shortly later).

With the demising offense the Cubs place low in most hitting categories and average only around 3 runs per game. That is not near enough to win. Chicago bats didn’t come alive to rally at all during the season and struck out in too many key run scoring situations. The Cubs only power support in 2012 came from Alfonso Soriano (31 homeruns, 106 RBIs). It’s stunning how the club managed all season long with the following outfield rotation alignment: David DeJesus/Brian LaHair RF, CF Marlon Byrd/Brett Jackson, and Alfonso Soriano LF. Besides the fact the Cubs really struggled with runners in scoring position the players which were added to the roster in August really had no effect on scoring frequency and hits-to-runs ratios. Scraping for run support for their starting pitchers was what the Cubs showed with agony on the field. Stranding runners on base decimated their chances to win even close games. Nothing to be content with at all.

There is truly not much to applaud in the dismal 2012 season. The only real bright gems which remain are Andy Rizzo (acquired from the Padres in 2011) and Starlin Castro who signed a long-term contract extension. The star shortstop has drove in 78 RBIs so far and was hitting over .325 in April and May(currently .285). Anthony Rizzo came along from Triple-A Iowa in July/August to bash 15 homeruns with 92 total hits in 83 games. He provides a stinging effect to opposing NL pitchers. Rizzo is a definite potential superstar at first base for Chicago who needs to see bawdy offensive numbers from guys like him next season. This off-season the GM and owner have to think intelligent moves for the Cubs to fill the gaps to put a defined, potent offense back on the map in Chicago. Fans want to see their beloved franchise break away from the NL Central’s underbelly. Time to get serious as ever at Wrigley Field and learn to how to win again.

Cubs faltering even more after losing veterans, drop series to Reds

2012-08-20T12:13:00.000-04:00

Coping with a rebuilding season the negatives have seemed to add on for the Cubs. After trading away four veterans in Reed Johnson, Paul Malhom, Ryan Dempster, and Geovany Soto to two teams the positive reinforcements for later success have declined fast. For Franchise Management pulling the trigger to unload these players only to bring new prospects (unlikely to get many starts) was definitely not an intelligent move. Everyone knows the Cubs struggle to manufacture enough run support for the starting pitchers. Why they didn't go out and acquire other veteran hitters is beyond logic. Not only to get the Cubs strain with the injury to Matt Garza and the early setback to former ace Ryan Dempster, but they have virtually no good role players now off the bench. Plus the backup catcher spot isn't fulfilled well either. Too many losses have piled up this season.

In the past week the Cubs have not performed up to par against the first place Reds. They lost the series, 3-of-4 games in Cincy giving limited run production and having not so effective starting pitching as they have reached a 47-73 mark. Getting swept twice on the road in August has shown the club to be sloppy at times with errors, bad decisions on the base paths, and totally lack of execution with runners in scoring to develop offense. Being 20 games under .500 is the pits for any MLB team. In Chicago the front office should have their priorities in order and meet the team's needs by now. Only reaching 44 wins by mid-August is downright pitiful.

The efforts are there again though from Alfonso Soriano, Starlin Castro, and newcomer Anthony Rizzo yet the lineup fans too many times in important run scoring chances. This is not the coach's fault for low offensive production. It appears as if the Cubs are fine when they get off to an early lead (usually 3-4 runs ahead) compared to when they trail in a game, generally 60-70 % of the time. That's just not good to see. Fans can't take but so much fallouts and poor outcomes during the season.

With the Cubs switching players from Triple-A Iowa to the Majors in final 2 months the prospects like Brett Jackson will sure to get their experience by being in the lineup. They don't however have a solidified starting rotation still. So far the minor leaguers brought up have not answered the call to come in and deliver good enough results. It looks to be a total bummer for the rest of the way. Next year without big bats to go with reliable, healthy starters to go the distance nothing will change much in the standings. At least the Cubs can avoid last place which belongs to the truly struggling Houston Astros. Man, this Chicago franchise needs to turn potential into success again. To achieve they have to gather the leadership and talent necessary to rise from their collapse. Then the franchise can reach their goals.

Soto, Cubs gang deliver to beat Marlins 5-1 before rain follows

2012-07-19T15:19:00.003-04:00

Brian Kersey/ Getty Images

When a recent turnaround the Cubs have performed better than average in recent weeks. With last night's 5-1 win over Miami it makes 7 of their last 8 at home. Way to go Chicago! At Wrigley before the rain arrived the Cubs were tied at 1 thanks to a Starlin Castro homer in the 4th inning. That was his 8th of the season and 45th RBI. After that Geovany Soto ripped a hard ground hopper over 3rd base which scored a run to make it 2-1. After another runner reached and wild pitch came to the plate Jeff Baker busted out a sharp 2-run double down the line. He made the score 4-1 in the 7th. Then David DeJesus notched an additional insurance run via a sac fly. All in all good game for the Cubs who are trying to make a quality run with streakiness in their favor to close out July. Winning 2-of-3 to capture the series in New York gave the club a lift too.

The Cubs are at current 37-53. The big series which most fans await is set this weekend against the Cardinals in St. Louis. With good patience and timely hitting Chicago can take this series also against a not so potent rival which doesn't possess any great pitching right now. Dave Sveum and his coaching staff may want to select offensive options for hit-and- runs and sacrifice bunts to get the wheels rolling for team blue's advantage. With a more balanced starting rotation and a few new faces in the bullpen Chicago can muster up to a serious challenge against their nemesis.

With trade talks swirling around about Ryan Dempster leaving, the Cubs better get the best available top hitter if not another starter for their trouble. Knowing how one area offsets another with this club it may be best to leave him off the table for a while. After the St. Louis series the men in blue travel to Pittsburgh to combat the Pirates for 3 games. Best of luck on their efforts there, go Cubs!

Cubs drop consecutive games to Tigers, falling back too far in Central

2012-06-15T04:20:00.003-04:00

Since there hasn't been much to discuss here in the past month no need to post anything, but once. As of June the Cubs have really fallen back in the Central. At 21-42 there has been very little to get excited about. For good measure and to salvage another series Chicago avoided the swept against the Tigers, but lost yesterday 5-3 at Wrigley. Darwin Barney had a nice RBI double off the left field wall to plate a run. A new prospect was called up from Triple-A Iowa, Luis Valbuena who went 0-for-3 with an RBI groundout. An injury to Ian Stewart sent him to the 15-day DL as the lineup scrambles to find a solution to extra offense. Dave Sveum has tried different combinations with the outfield, used pinch runners at times yet doesn't seem to have a set everyday lineup.

Despite their record the Cubs are getting experience for their young prospects fresh out of the minors like Travis Wood who pitched Thursday and gave up 8 hits and 3 earned runs which is decent. Still with the starting pitching varying (exemption here is Ryan Dempster) with their output there are no trades being made by the Cubs. Offense is stifling to watch most of the time and really needs a tune up with another veteran, top position player with a few other good supporting bench players. If not it's going to be a long summer in Wrigleyville. Fans aren't going to like it by August, seeing how the standings are shaping up. Though coming up this weekend it looks to be a fun series with the Red Sox to resume Interleague Play. Run production will be key again to who will take the series.

Dismal Production From Lineup, Cubs Get Swept By Sox

2012-05-20T20:59:00.001-04:00

Photo by Associated Press

The atmosphere became Unwrigley-like today against cross-town rivals the White Sox in Interleague Play. Nothing developed with the offense as the Cubs lost 6-0 behind a tough pitching showcase by Jake Peavy. Only 5 hits total mounted by the Cubs! This contest wasn't worth watching (the 2012 club has yet to give fans a reason to cheer much). Paul Maholm(4-3)left many in the crowd at Wrigley speechless. He went 6.1 innings to allow 5 earned runs on 9 hits with no walks. Yes, one game to truly want to forget. Starlin Castro and the boys in blue failed to produce any real offense. This has to sting a bit for the Cubs who just hit their 6th straight loss. Optimism won't be enough to fuel the club until the half-way point in the season. Nothing seems to be working right on consistent basis, bench-hitting, outfield rotation, call-ups from Triple-A, decisions on the base paths just name it.

At 15-26 the problems grow for the Cubs. They don't have the veteran leadership or the power in the lineup to make comebacks often. A struggle to reach at least 4th place right now is SERIOUS with no insults being made here. Theo Epstein is the new guy in Wrigley with the power to make all the top decisions so good trades have to be made sooner than later. If he can piece together a contender like so in Boston than it's time to make history positive again in Chicago for once again a uncertain, struggling franchise. The best which can be noted in the recent week is the Kerry Wood strikeout in relief and his farewell (giving a curtain call to a near sell-out home crowd). He pitched with dominance in his early career and led the Cubs to the playoffs twice. Finished out his career with a positive stride while performing at a lesser control level as a reliever. Yet he as a player with his talent will be missed.

As for the present time the Cubs don't want to put their season on ice and let everything falter around them. Their goal needs to be to keep working on hitting techniques to prove they can sustain the bad and avoid the real ugly games to get back within .500 ball. The NL Central is shaping up to be a toss up so far. For now the Cubs have to play with intensity and earn runs (average 3-4 per game) truly on offense and pray the starters stay healthy and effective for the best overall results. This club looks to snap the losing streak with new life in the lineup against the upcoming series with the Astros and Pirates.

Lahair, Soto Power Cubs to 5-1 Final Plus Game 2 Predictions

2012-05-08T20:19:00.001-04:00

Photo by David Bank/Getty Images
The game last night turned out well to the Cubs' advantage. With the bats coming around Starlin Castro slapped an RBI single early. Brian Lahair followed suit with his 8th homerun in the 4th inning. The pitching proved to be outstanding by Jeff Samardzija who finished the game with this statline: 7 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 R, 2 BB, 7 K.
That's what the Cubs deserve: a fine starting pitching performance which was backed by ample offense. In route to the win, Samardzija moves to 4-1 on the season. Later in game 1 during the 8th Geovany Soto who'd been rotating with Willington Castillo, drove a ball into the bleachers for a 2-run homer. He went 2-for-4 on the night amongst the lingering fog at Wrigley.

The Cubs have a lot of promise in 2012 with young prospects and talented starting pitching. Making up ground lost in the NL Central will be a true test. I like the Cubs' chances with them averaging around 4.5 runs per game and maintaining the three staples in the starting rotation: Ryan Dempster, Matt Garza, and Jeff Samardzija. The club needs that appeal from the pitching with their gritty performances as well as having production from third base and the outfield to keep the runs pouring in for a while.

As for Game 2, Ryan Dempster(0-1) vs. Randall Delgado(2-3), will be to the Cubs' favor. Dempster is shooting for his 1st win in 2012. He's sitting on a 0.95 ERA, which I'm guessing he only will allow 1-2 runs in this game at home. Predictions for this contest are certain to be close. Starlin Castro must get on base. I believe he reaches 2 times with at least a walk and a hit while boosting his batting average. Alfonso Soriano if inserted in the lineup will get a big hit and drive in around 2 runs. The rest of the lineup must get enough pinetar on those bats as they aim for 10-12 total hits. As for Demp, it's going to fun to watch. He may have a bit of trouble with the Braves' middle of the order.

Other than that the savvy veteran right-hander probably will be fine as he tries to keep it close for the Cubbies. Coach Sveum may elect to make a few defensive switches on the infield and outfield. Reed Johnson can have a chance to enter late in the game and get an at-bat. Expect the score to be a 4-2 final for the Cubs. Definitely should be worth the watch as Chicago tries to climb up to .500. Enjoy it while it last Cubs fans because this month may get to be nagging with a challenging schedule. Go Cubs!

Garza delivers with big 1-hit outing, Cubs route Phillies 5-1

2012-04-29T23:58:00.003-04:00

A special day at Citzens Bank park in Philadelphia showed the Cubs earning their second win of the series against the Phillies. The Phillie Phanatic celebrated a birthday. The offense churned about for the Cubs as Tony Campana ignited the team with a 2-hit display in the lead-off spot. He stole a base and went around to score on a sac fly by Starlin Castro in the 3rd. Later the speedy Campana followed up with a run at the plate on a fielder's choice. With small ball offense for support early, starter Matt Garza was excellent all game. He went 7 strong innings only allowing a mere hit. What a huge difference that makes compare to previous weeks where the bullpen faltered with the bats struggling to produce enough runs. With the kind of lineup the Cubs have the starters are going to be needed to go deep into games. The offense is lacking still without another quality outfielder and power from the catcher's position (let's see if Soto can change that).

Joe Mather got the start in left field today and delivered with a solo homerun. The first for the Cubs outfield. Gave extra insurance as the Cubs welcomed it. In the 8th Jeff Baker added an RBI single which plated Brian LaHair. With the second victory over the Phillies, Matt Garza records a 2-1 record as given the final decision. The bullpen was okay. Dolis made quick work against the opposition in 1 inning and despite walking 3 batters Carlos Marmol closed out the game for the 5-1 final. With new faces all around the clubhouse and guys platooning in the outfield and infield the Cubs still can benefit by trading for a few power hitters. Possibly bringing up from the minors another reliable and consistent hitter to place in the outfield can add to the offense. Another similar player towards Micah Hoffpauir (find him) caliber can steady run production for the Cubs.

At 8-14 the schedule is going to become more tough heading into May. The guys in blue need to get better at home. They truly owe it to the fans. With injuries and now rehab stints for Ryan Dempster and Kerry Wood other young players will have to help carry the load. The two pitchers are scheduled to pitch soon at Triple-A Iowa. Hope all works out well there to have the veterans back as soon as possible. If the Cubs can muster a win Monday to take the series in Philadelphia then they'll catch a break. Luckily the big bats for the Phillies aren't in the lineup due to injuries. The Cubs kinda needed to sweep the Cardinals at Wrigley, but that's okay as there will more chances for the tri-factor this season. To finish out the first month the ballclub isn't doing up to the standards mainstream fans' expect yet the experimentation is there to see how different players can add value with special roles on given days. The best bet for the Cubs before the veterans return is Jeff Samardzja. He's got the best skill right now on the team. Look for him to be a real game changer and home crowd pleaser. With him in May and of course the lineup coming alive it should be an interesting time to see if the Cubs can progress.

Samardzija enables Cubs to avoid sweep with 4-3 final

2012-04-08T18:36:00.001-04:00

With the return to Wrigley Field to kick off the season it was a bad start with an unreliable bullpen. Game 1 and 2 didn't go to the Cubs' satisfaction. Comebacks by the Nationals on back-to-back days became an annoyance for fans. Still with good weather and a sure fire starter in Jeff Samardzija the Cubs rebounded on Easter Sunday. A sac fly by Alfonso Soriano in the 4th got Chicago blue on the board. Later another hit by the left fielder drove in the second run.

Jeff Samardzija did more than what was needed for the win. He hit an 110 pitch count into the 9th, nearly capitalizing on a complete game. Yielding only 4 hits and one earned run through 8 quality innings the big right-hander played well to the home crowd's approval. It wasn't until a error from Starlin Castro in the 9th off a Ryan Zimmerman ground ball put a bit of uncertainity into the air. The next batter, Adam LaRoche connected on a 2-run homer to make a 4-3 game after the Cubs got 2 insurance runs with an RBI double by Castro and a line drive single for a run off Ian Stewart's bat.

Carlos Marmol, having stinging outings in the opening series, came in to relieve Samardzija with 1 out to record. His mechanics and control looked off as in the previous 2 games at Wrigley. Luckily he got a pop-up to end the game. As a result the starter, Samardzija picked up his first win. Kerry Wood and Marmol must be reliable in the coming months ahead as they both were shaky prior to Sunday. The rest of the bullpen will probably see enough action to get tested in the next series against the Brewers. Chicago needs to pick up the intensity to give proper run support for the starting pitchers.

All and all the Cubs didn't prove much in the opening series versus the Nats. They definitely should have got a sweep. They'll really have to strengthen the bullpen and find good results from a platoon outfield. Fans expect to see smart improvements. The Cubs under new manager Dale Sveum have to find ways to pack their offense with rally hitters and have the bullpen be under control. It won't be easy in April where they play the Cardinals on the road and at home plus contend in the division with the hard-hitting Reds and Brewers.

Cubs end season on bad note, brief year in review

2011-10-01T13:41:00.001-04:00

The season finale didn't go to the Cubs' advantage. They lost the series to the Padres on the road. Only producing 2 runs in the last game wasn't a good strength to end it for the franchise. Their offense lacks too much execution without enough run support. The team will have to find a solution to the runners stranded dilemna they face almost every year. In good news Carlos Pena finished the year strong with 28 homeruns and over 80 RBIs. He's eligible for free agency again this off-season. A smart move would be to sign him again to a new contract.

The young arms didn't stick around long in 2011. Andrew Cashner, Casey Coleman, Chris Carpenter, Jeff Samardzja, and other pitching prospects didn't get much time in due to injuries. The starting pitching didn't have a terrible time on the mound yet couldn't keep the ERA to around 4.00 or lower as a rotation. In the lineup Starlin Castro produced over 200 total hits with 10 homeruns, having his best season as a Cub. He became the real bright spot for the young blood as did Darwin Barney who served well in the no. 2 spot in the lineup.

The Cubs finished 2011 with a 71-91 record. They fell well below .500 after July and wasn't able to rebound to get within 10 games if not better of the Cardinals and Brewers. They end up 5th in the NL Central. Another big year for Aramis Ramirez who took leadership for the offense as he totaled 26 homeruns with 93 RBIs on 173 hits. Ramirez also notched a .306 batting average. Not much else went to high favor in Wrigleyville. The Cubs let the Pirates get in front of them. They need to desperately sign key off-season acquistions and possibly make a few trades with their bullpen extras. Most of all they need to work on their offensive strategies and find a way to juice up the power connection in the linuep. That's all for 2011, better luck next year.

Pena takes charge with homerun, Cubs route Reds 6-3

2011-09-08T15:33:00.000-04:00

The Cubs battled the Reds yesterday with Pena and the lineup taking advantage of good opportunities. Starlin Castro had 2 hits to move his league leading total along the way. Carlos Pena struck for his 25th homerun and notched 3 RBIs. Aramis Ramirez also did fine work in an at-bat to pick up a 2-run single when the Cubs needed it. The pitching held up enough as Ryan Dempster proved to be effective. Yet he didn't qualify for the decision, allowing 3 runs on 10 hits and 2 walks.

Kerry Wood came in during the 8th inning to record his 2nd win this season. Carlos Marmol sealed the victory with his 33rd save. With their record at 62-81, the franchise has endured injuries with new decisions being made by management and the team President. With room on the roster a few minor league call-ups have been made. Nothing exciting for the most part as the franchise will search for a new GM in the off-season since the Jim Hendry firing. The big turnaround may take making at least two big signings after the season ends. That can give the Cubs the firepower they need.