tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-334459222011-09-16T10:05:45.698-05:00Where Cubs fans go to die.toddhundleysuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14981132775410052595noreply@blogger.comBlogger1131100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-66777708335794451702008-07-08T18:07:00.001-05:002008-07-08T18:08:28.974-05:00

DID WE NOT LEARN OUR LESSON WHEN HIS NAME WAS MARK PRIOR?????Furious. FURIOUS.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01408306598745184645noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-58924841086897983062007-09-18T06:43:00.000-05:002007-09-18T06:54:35.133-05:00

So, it seems that actually having time to watch 500 games this year (conservative estimate - yes, it's part of my job) doesn't really leave time for blogging. But, um...wow? 2000 hits in a day? Thanks, Jonah Keri! (Aside: I still find your articles a bit boring. However, I am really enjoying Baseball Between The Numbers, so let's call it a wash.)Observations:Mark Prior: 0 IP, 0-0 W-L, 0 K, (

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01408306598745184645noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-47528001405553722932007-04-25T18:30:00.000-05:002007-04-25T19:22:29.368-05:00

The Cubs stopped sawing at the umbilical cord that had kept them attached to Mark Prior long enough to realize that they were fraying instead his rotator cuff, labrum, and ..."shoulder capsule." This comes as no surprise to anyone that saw the 80-87 mph fastball he brought to spring training. It does, however, mean that I have won a gentleman's wager with the A-Train, who was convinced that

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-72738549816533650702006-12-31T12:29:00.000-06:002006-12-31T12:38:34.281-06:00

Can't say the same for the Bulls' Kirk Hinrich (story).CHICAGO -- Chicago guard Kirk Hinrich missed the Bulls' game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday night because of a groin injury. Hinrich, averaging 14.5 points and 5.8 assists, left late in the third quarter of Friday's 107-97 victory at Toronto after he aggravated a condition that had been nagging him for a week when he tried

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-423050619574970392006-12-13T21:31:00.000-06:002006-12-13T21:39:19.762-06:00

This isn't related to the Cubs at all, but funny. Today Daisuke Matsuzaka flew to Boston to undergo a physical examination before signing a six year, $60 million contract (less per year than Ted Lilly, mind you). Many Boston fans showed up at the airport to make Matsuzaka feel welcome. Among them:Mark Fairweather, a fan from Lincoln, had his 8-year-old son, Nick, on his shoulders. "We thought

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1165685305960321992006-12-09T11:24:00.000-06:002006-12-09T14:34:08.239-06:00

This guy is in front of Mark Prior and Rich Hill in the Cubs' starting rotation.I'm going back to sleep.Update: Okay I woke up and ESPN is still telling me that the Cubs signed Marquis, either for three years and $20 million (bad), or three years and $28 million (Rey Ordonez being on your roster bad). Either way he's probably going to make more than Zambrano does.Here are Marquis' HR/9 and K/9

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com86tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1165600341929299702006-12-08T11:17:00.000-06:002006-12-08T11:52:21.946-06:00

I mean still making moves.Anyway, today is a good day, because today marks the first time in the four-plus months of our existence that I am able to apply anything I learned while wasting my time at college. Finally! Our first post on karoshi!Gary Hughes, special assistant to Jim Hendry, on Hendry's eventful week:His priorities were skewed.Ted Lilly at four years and $40 million. Can't argue with

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1165491280883729832006-12-07T04:44:00.000-06:002006-12-07T05:34:40.903-06:00

Ted Lilly. You paid TED LILLY 40 million dollars over four years. Does anyone think Jim Hendry's hospitalization is only coincidence? The guy's consistently crappy, because he's not able to keep the ball down. He can't eat innings (over 6 IP/start once in his career, and that was 6.15 in 2004, his BEST SEASON EVER), he walks everybody ("Did he walk Frank Thomas?" "He walked everybody." "Did

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1165388177770326362006-12-06T00:51:00.000-06:002006-12-06T00:56:17.786-06:00

At least indirectly. From the Wikipedia page on agent Scott Boras:Scott Boras was a second baseman and center fielder who played in the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals organizations. After four years in the minor leagues, during which he never made it above Class AA, he retired due to three knee surgeries. The Cubs paid Boras' tuition to attend law school at the McGeorge School of Law,

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1165083939690844682006-12-02T12:12:00.000-06:002006-12-02T12:26:41.700-06:00

The Cubs have reportedly offered "Jarrod Washburn money" to Ted Lilly. Here's his agent:Lilly has a career record of 59-58 with a 4.60 ERA, but O'Brian thinks that in today's market, Washburn-type money is very possible. "I've always pointed to that contract as something that I thought would be something that we should be able to achieve," O'Brien told MLB.com. "With what Chicago has offered us,

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164673269453636392006-11-27T18:09:00.000-06:002006-11-27T18:21:09.466-06:00

From Baseball Reference's BR Bullpen page on Mark Prior:Was a background dancer in the Mariah Carey video "Glitter"Either this can't possibly be true, or things are starting to make sense.Considering the fact that there is no video or song by the name of Glitter by Mariah Carey, I'd have to assume this is the work of a maligned Cubs fan, possibly A-Train.IMDB.com tells us that, as far as film

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com79tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164672559783110452006-11-27T17:37:00.000-06:002006-11-27T18:09:19.850-06:00

Here is Aramis Ramirez, on last season:"Last year, if I had a good April and May, I would have hit 100 home runs."I love the first week of the season, when the baseball world is convinced that Tuffy Rhodes will hit 486 homers, that Mark Prior won't miss his first start, and that the Cubs will score 15 runs every game.In other news, Cliff Floyd wants to come home to be a Chicago Cub. And why not?

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164626019983624232006-11-27T05:02:00.000-06:002006-11-27T05:13:39.996-06:00

Okay, I don't have much to say about today's Bear game. Rex played like shit, as he is wont to do when the defense is more challenging than electric football. The defense was awesome, but even if defense does win championships, offense, oh...scores points? Maybe?However, I do want to say one thing. I don't like the Pats (and if your stepmom ever said "We beat one of those stupid Midwest teams

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164492384422385892006-11-25T15:33:00.000-06:002006-11-25T16:06:24.436-06:00

Title of Buster Olney's Blog Entry Today: Is the NL Making a Comeback?Only two free agents have changed leagues so far this offseason, both leaving Detroit for the NL Central (Carlos Lee to Houston, Mark DeRosa to the Cubs.)The post is about building up competitive advantage by spending money, but if the AL were significantly more talented in a market in which there is a finite amount of talent,

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164392222008900862006-11-24T11:55:00.000-06:002006-11-24T12:17:02.023-06:00

But he's still slow and a gimp, I'd assume.ESPN wrote an article on Ramirez's excitement regarding the signing of Alfonso Soriano. First of all, I really hate the recent trend in newsmedia to keep names off of articles. If some intern wrote the story, put his name on it. ESPN interns, I'd assume, get the short end of the stick for all of the research and leg-work required of

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164191597924974752006-11-22T04:23:00.000-06:002006-11-22T04:33:17.936-06:00

From world-renowned Cubs source Todd Hundley Sucks, November 15, 2006:Is it too late to sign Julio Lugo? With the FA class having only two solid middle infielders (Lugo and Ray Durham), and the Cubs needing two middle infielders (and, apparently, to spend $300M)...is that a perfect fit or what? My head hurts just thinking about it.From Internetwide Leader In Sports Can't Stop The Bleeding, today:

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1164020508554504242006-11-20T04:41:00.000-06:002006-11-20T05:01:48.573-06:00

Cubs sign Soriano. Top free agent on the market, superb hitter in the prime of his career, recent addition to the list of the top defensive outfielders...and people hate the deal.I'm sorry, but not even in Darren Daulton-land is this anything even resembling a less-than-spectactular deal. Let's address the criticisms of the deal.1) It's too much money.Yeah, it's the fifth-largest deal in MLB

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163971373819826812006-11-19T15:00:00.000-06:002006-11-19T15:22:53.836-06:00

The Cubs have signed Alfonso Soriano to an EIGHT year, $136M contract. This leaves us with the following:Alfonso Soriano, CFMichael Barrett, CDerrek Lee, 1BAramis Ramirez, 3BJacque Jones, RFMatt Murton, LFMark DeRosa, 2Bsomeone vomitously bad, SSCarlos Zambrano, PThis is not a bad lineup, and it doesn't stack up badly against...well, anyone. Move DeRosa to SS and start Patterson/Theriot at 2B?

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163932529363262602006-11-19T04:03:00.000-06:002006-11-19T04:35:29.380-06:00

First things first - football pool:Colts -1.5Bengals +3.5 (best bet)Panthers/Rams over 44.5Broncos -2.5Giants +3.5Tiebreaker: 47 total points on MNF.Second things second: The stats seem to back him up, but I'm going to disagree with Pandrew here...if Morgan Ensberg is in fact better than Aubrey Huff, it's marginally if at all. (Dear sabermetricians: I don't want to hear any explanation involving

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163887960848811422006-11-18T16:07:00.000-06:002006-11-18T16:12:40.873-06:00

Hey Sportswriters!The Astros are not going to get rid of Morgan Ensberg to put Aubrey Huff at third because Huff is not better than Ensberg. That is all.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163702007217141512006-11-16T12:10:00.000-06:002006-11-16T12:33:27.243-06:00

With this move, the Cubs have now, in effect, equalized the trade that sent Latroy Hawkins to the San Francisco Giants in exchange for SP Jerome Williams (who the Athletics picked up for free) and minor-league RP David Aardsma. The Cubs sent Aardsma to the White Sox for reliever Neal Cotts yesterday in a move that makes almost no sense.Cotts had a terrible year in 2006. His K rate dropped by

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163632766627286532006-11-15T17:09:00.000-06:002006-11-15T17:19:26.626-06:00

ESPN's Keith Law, despite being a sabermetrician, put together an excellent list of the top 40 free agents this offseason. (Insider, deal with it.) #1 was Ramirez, followed by Matsuzaka (wrong), Soriano, and Schmidt. Carlos Lee was 7th, Barry Zito was FIFTEENTH (between Frank Thomas and Barry Bonds, which is right where he belongs), and the 26-40 group includes such luminaries as Mike Stanton,

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163625678172406322006-11-15T14:41:00.000-06:002006-11-15T15:21:18.186-06:00

And they will do it by making deals like this: The Chicago Cubs and backup catcher Henry Blanco agreed to a $5.25 million, two-year contract Wednesday with an option for 2009.That's $2.37 million a year for Henry Blanco. With an option. Career numbers:.225/.290/.367, 49 HR, 225 RBI in 666 games, 1955 AB.Apparently Michael Barrett's injury and subsequent inability to father children were the

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163592502106807392006-11-15T05:39:00.000-06:002006-11-15T07:01:42.096-06:00

However, if you're going to try and catch it in your hat, the Cub variety might not be the best idea.Mark DeRosa started out as a relative unknown, then got a new role and had a breakout season, but hasn't been heard from since. Wait, that's Portia De Rossi...but really, what's the difference? DeRosa's number seven comparable player of all time is Ramon Martinez...and that's not somebody you sign

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163545788540397872006-11-14T16:40:00.000-06:002006-11-14T17:09:48.560-06:00

At least, that's what I have to assume, based on their signing Mark DeRosa to a three year, $13 million deal. But don't worry, Chicago is full of machine politicians, and, as the Cubs' corporate offices are no different, Hendry and McDonough will find a way to sell this one to you.1) Nothing indicates that he'll even come close to matching his .296/.357/.456, 13 HR, 73 RBI performance in 2006.2)

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163417966118498822006-11-13T05:39:00.000-06:002006-11-13T05:39:26.136-06:00

The Cubs have re-signed Aramis.That is all.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1163334094760049142006-11-12T06:04:00.000-06:002006-11-12T06:21:34.790-06:00

It's hard to ignore all of this Aramis Ramirez free agency talk. He wants a six-year contract, it seems...good! Give it to him! There are only four better courses of action for the Cubs than giving him a six-year deal, and they are as follows, in reverse order of excellence:1) Seven-year contract2) Eight-year contract3) Nine-year contract4) Ten or more-year contract.THIS IS OUR BEST PLAYER.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162992248651212842006-11-08T07:06:00.000-06:002006-11-08T07:24:08.666-06:00

"Jeremy Brown isn't Zito," says one of the scouts. But he is. A lot of people in the room have forgotten that the scouting department hadn't wanted to take Barry Zito because Barry Zito threw an 88-mph fastball. They preferred a flamethrower named Ben Sheets. "Billy made us take Zito," Bogie later confesses.Moneyball, Michael Lewis.Billy Beane made the A's take Barry Zito over Ben Sheets. For

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162950094421311842006-11-07T18:54:00.000-06:002006-11-07T19:41:34.506-06:00

On the subject of Aramis Ramirez:1) HOW DO YOU LET THIS GUY NOT PICK UP HIS OPTION??? Promise him whatever it takes to sign him, Tribune company. Part-ownership of the Cubby Bear? Sold. Change Grace St. to Ramirez Way? Done and done. A "personal services" contract with THS favorite Sarah Poontong? Make it happen.The fact is, he's our best player, and you don't give up a guy like that.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162280927226104902006-10-31T01:23:00.000-06:002006-10-31T01:48:58.156-06:00

We have recently obtained photographic evidence of the Eckstein's commitment to hustle. Here, you may view the she-Eck (left, actual height: 5'2") as she poses with a much less scrappy, hustling actress. (And for the record, I am not jealous. I prefer my women taller. And nakeder.) Thanks to that same source, we have also been graced with this photo of Eck dying his hair.From the Won't Be Fooled

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162065916920759452006-10-28T14:54:00.000-05:002006-10-28T15:24:18.443-05:00

Remember those fifty page books you read as a child about Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Mickey Mantle that made you wish you were forty years older so that you might have been alive for the hey-day of gritty in-your-face baseball when all the stars were golden and signed autographs for everybody in the house and nobody cheated? Those books still exist, only today they write about Sammy Sosa, Mark Grace

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162064585240017342006-10-28T14:15:00.000-05:002006-10-28T14:43:05.283-05:00

Somebody is very interested in Todd Helton's ejection from a game against the Diamondbacks on July 21. So interested that this person has accidentally found himself viewing this blog about ten times or so over the last month. Well.Here is what happened: Helton, who went 0-for-4, earned a quick ejection after he requested that plate umpire James Hoye defer to the third-base umpire on a called

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1162031104267692972006-10-28T05:16:00.000-05:002006-10-28T05:25:04.283-05:00

In many European countries, denying the Holocaust is a crime. A historical event, documented by many independent sources...how could you deny it?I wondered that, until today. The 2006 World Series? Never happened. No such thing. I never thought I'd be longing for the 1994 strike to happen all over again, but here I am, shocked as a team I hate wins the title for the second year in a row.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161999667848432542006-10-27T19:53:00.000-05:002006-10-27T20:45:16.823-05:00

That is what Fox's announcers had to say after David Eckstein reached on Brandon Inge's throwing error, on which Yadier Molina scored. David Eckstein: occasionally around when good things happen to his team.1. For whomever was interested, Henry Rowengartner's jersey number was 1, although when he played for the Pirates in little league it may have been 17.2. The Cubs have announced a few

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161860812486741292006-10-26T06:03:00.000-05:002006-10-26T06:06:52.486-05:00

Dear internet and television sports coverage:Yes, we know Curtis Granderson is 0-for-whatever in the playoffs.Yes, we know that Pudge Rodriguez is too.But, if Curtis (because I really, really like Curtis) goes 0-for-29 in the Series, and then knocks in the winning run in Game Seven...He's World Series Hero© Curtis Granderson. Thank you, good night, and shut the hell up.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161859517691701582006-10-26T05:35:00.000-05:002006-10-26T05:56:03.646-05:00

So, first off, this would not be a post of substance unless I deigned to thank our readers, loyal and otherwise:- Otherwise: If you were to search Google for "Todd Hundley", we are now on the first page...number ten, and climbing. Thank you all for hitting our page and making us relevant!- Loyal: It's time to thank my good friend Lauren, who recently sponsored us on Todd's page on

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161637104103477452006-10-23T15:33:00.000-05:002006-10-23T15:58:24.136-05:00

I'd like to begin this entry with a shoutout to Pedro Martinez, and the entire THS staff sends our condolences on the tragic passing of his midget. Pedro, keep your head up...I hear Kid Rock's got a support group for stuff like this. Besides, Pam Anderson-Lee-Rock's tits are bigger than Nelson was..."It's exactly the kind of joke he would have loved!"Now, on to baseball-related content...- Game

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161431983790510302006-10-21T06:45:00.000-05:002006-10-21T06:59:43.803-05:00

So, it has been brought to my attention that my dad reads this blog...I talked to him about it, and he said that he liked it, but I could stand to tone down the language some. Now, I don't react well to criticism...so I am going to replace all "four-letter words" in this post with a four-letter word which I find even more offensive.Let's go to the head-to-head.C: Ivan Rodriguez v. Yadier

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161198754746741432006-10-18T14:06:00.000-05:002006-10-18T14:12:34.763-05:00

They're screwing us even after we're dead.Starting next season, fans of the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers will be able to have their ashes put in an urn or be lowered six feet under in a casket emblazoned with their team colors and insignia.I'm sure this was McDonough's idea.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161142320254370812006-10-17T22:23:00.000-05:002006-10-17T22:34:15.190-05:00

Juan PierrePandrew: Okay Juan Pierre. Best defensive season of his career.Pandrew: No errors, zone rating of .911 (whatever that means!)A-Train: That's not even a real stat.Pandrew: Fine. Fielding Percentage of 1.000A-Train: Walks declined for the fourth straight year. I know you're going to get on that, so I’ll just get it out of the way.Pandrew: His July-August-September was almost unbelievably

toddhundleysuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14981132775410052595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161116465016016802006-10-17T14:34:00.000-05:002006-10-17T15:21:05.033-05:00

1) The amusing subplot that has followed me since the beginning of the Bears' season: Pandrew calling me with criticisms of Devin Hester. There is no feeling quite like hearing complaints about the punt returner after a 40-7 victory. Work was great, it consisted of a lot of cheering, jumping up and down, dancing, and hugging. (We wanted the Bears to win.) And finally, Rex Grossman had the

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161075753290227802006-10-17T03:44:00.000-05:002006-10-17T04:02:33.303-05:00

I'm just trying to keep up, really.But A-Rod? A Cub? Unacceptable. Let's look at the facts:1) A-Rod is a quitter when it counts, and that won't apply with the Cubs.DOESN'T MATTER.Ramirez is fairly lousy in games that count. That's why he has lousy Aprils, and lousy first halves of May - after that, the playoffs are a fucking pipe dream anyways. So, we can get Ramirez (who I really think is

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161062130889306272006-10-16T23:51:00.000-05:002006-10-17T19:33:16.950-05:00

ESPN headline: Source: Piniella expects Cubs to go hard after A-Rod (article)Sources familiar with the situation told ESPN.com that Piniella, who is extremely close to Rodriguez, expects the Cubs to aggressively pursue the 10-time All-Star. The 63-year-old manager and the 31-year-old Rodriguez have what amounts to a quasi-father/son relationship; Rodriguez was managed in Seattle by Piniella from

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161044475239601762006-10-16T18:23:00.000-05:002006-10-17T19:34:23.866-05:00

This card must have been printed early last week, when everyone still thought Dewey had won...I mean Piniella had been traded to the Yankees. Also apparently they thought Piniella could replace Sheff in the outfield.The Cubs get Lou, who will make for some very interesting ballgames next year, if nothing else. And, as we at THS have little hope for the Cubs turning it around next year and expect

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161030341183772142006-10-16T15:20:00.000-05:002006-10-16T15:26:12.626-05:00

A-Train posted the following on October 8 in an otherwise fantastic, world-changing post:[Ron Gardenhire] managed to lose a series to Oakland, who basically invented the concept of "we suck in October because we cannot grasp the idea that postseason baseball is not the same thing as regular season baseball".Billy Beane: "My shit doesn't work in the play-offs. My job is to get us to the play-offs.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161030042097716952006-10-16T14:57:00.000-05:002006-10-16T15:20:42.110-05:00

Cubs' Mailbag (article) A few years ago, the Cubs led the league in home runs and they were in the middle of the pack in runs. So, they added some speed at the expense of power and now they are dead-last in runs. Why can't they just admit that at least part of the problem is a lack of on-base percentage? It's obvious what side of the "Moneyball" holy war the Cubs are on.-- Andy T., Richmond, Va.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1161023504369949462006-10-16T13:29:00.000-05:002006-10-17T19:35:01.053-05:00

Piniella Agrees To Manage Cubs (article)

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160809791310789442006-10-14T01:16:00.000-05:002006-10-14T02:09:51.326-05:00

One of my new bosses is a Cardinal fan. This is unacceptable, but at least it's good-natured.For now.As it's now Saturday, October 14...it is the 98th anniversary of the last time the Cubs won the World Series. Don't worry, we're not going to give you the "price of a gallon of milk" bullshit that everyone else does. I will merely state three simple facts.- Less than three weeks before, Henry

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160612456544861152006-10-11T19:11:00.000-05:002006-10-11T19:20:56.556-05:00

John McDonough's arithmatic.Here's McDonough on the Cubs' 66-96 recordYou win 30 more games and you're back to .500. Not true. Winning 30 more games gives the team a record of 96-66. Winning 15 games more would have put the Cubs at .500 on the season, at 81-81.It's tough to squeak out wins against teams like the Pirates (6-9), Padres (0-7), Braves (1-6). Actually if you exclude the Padres, the

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160507661443144382006-10-10T13:54:00.000-05:002006-10-10T14:18:12.760-05:00

There have been a number of silly responses to the Yankees' collapse. This is one of my favorites.Murray Chass believes that Mike Mussina is the reason the Yankees have not won a World Series since he joined the team (and is possibly responsible for their failiures before that).He writes:Mussina joined the Yankees as a free agent six years ago. The only other players who have been with the team

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160451162746849492006-10-09T22:30:00.000-05:002006-10-09T22:32:42.756-05:00

"Listen, if Derek Jeter doesn't like you--and Derek Jeter has embraced a lot of different guys over the years--there's a problem."--Richard Justice, on Alex Rodriguez.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160353305205963042006-10-08T19:20:00.000-05:002006-10-08T19:21:45.216-05:00

"Those old balls last a long time and you could play with them when they got old. These balls, once they get slippery, it's going to be difficult."--Antoine Walker.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160344404092251862006-10-08T16:49:00.000-05:002006-10-17T19:31:45.666-05:00

Joe Torre To Be Fired And Replaced by Lou Pinella (article).I'm betting that Piniella will be fired during Spring Training.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160300418149840562006-10-08T04:05:00.000-05:002006-10-08T04:41:08.790-05:00

While Pandrew and I are trying to get our schedules in sync so that we can take a couple hours to do a Cub year in review, I've been watching playoff baseball. I've also taken a new job - no specifics as I like to keep my public personas separate from each other, but here is a riddle that might help:Q: What are the odds that the Cubs win the World Series next year?A: Whatever I say they are.But

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160245433353702542006-10-07T13:11:00.000-05:002006-10-07T13:23:53.366-05:00

The man writing all of the good Cubs.com articles lately is Mark Sheldon, who writes for the Cincinnati Reds and appears to continue doing so. His articles are concise, relevant, and never blame his team's failiures on God/curses.But isn't that just like a Communist!

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160083636190876992006-10-05T16:20:00.000-05:002006-10-05T16:30:09.956-05:00

There is no new information regarding Carrie Muskat's three article absence from Cubs.com. Mark Sheldon continues to perform well. And with Baker gone, the kid might not need to hit .468 to stay in the game. Remember last year when Neifi was playing center field, after Hairston was injured/bad?The only thing interesting that came out of the search was the discovery that the Cubs' Coordinator of

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160071639763968002006-10-05T12:50:00.000-05:002006-10-05T13:07:19.780-05:00

John McDonough describing the managerial candidate he would like to hire, Joe Girardi; also, taking a thinly veiled jab at Dusty, who does not "get it," apparently.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160030240215778482006-10-05T01:17:00.000-05:002006-10-05T01:37:20.230-05:00

Watching the Twins/A's game today, Ron Gardenhire made a move that made ol' Johnnie B. look good by comparison.Exhibit A: The Twins' 8-9-1-2 hitters in today's lineup hit a combined SIX home runs this year in 1,594 at bats (1 HR/265.67 AB). For comparison: Carlos Zambrano (still a pitcher) had six home runs in 73 at bats (1 HR/12.17 AB).Exhibit B: The Twins, with two outs in the bottom of the

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1160010805861347502006-10-04T19:21:00.000-05:002006-10-04T20:18:56.276-05:00

Maybe he'll get on the juice.Anyway here's the dealOn Wednesday, the Cubs informed hitting coach Gene Clines, first-base coach Gary Matthews, bench coach Dick Pole, pitching coach Larry Rothschild, third-base coach Chris Speier, bullpen coach Juan Lopez and special assistant Sonny Jackson that the new manager would be responsible for hiring his own staff.Makes sense. Is Oneri Fleita in there? No?

toddhundleysuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14981132775410052595noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159933300986631592006-10-03T21:38:00.000-05:002006-10-03T22:41:41.146-05:00

It's true.Baker, whose contract was not renewed by the Chicago Cubs on Monday, will join ESPN's postseason baseball broadcast crew this weekend.A-Train will need to set the over/under for how many times Dusty will:Sing Neifi Perez's praises.Make poorly veiled criticisms of the Chicago Cubs.Demonstrate how taking a walk is dangerous, as it can lead to a double play.Not trust rookies.Eat his

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159844159115011532006-10-02T21:55:00.000-05:002006-10-02T21:55:59.130-05:00

"I always knew I was tough," Baker said, "but now I know I'm really tough."Earlier today, the Chicago Tribune announced that it would not offer a contract extension to Chicago Cubs manager Dusty Baker, after a season in which his team finished 66-96, last in the National League.Carrie Muskat, of course, joined in on the chorus of "Blame Anybody But Dusty." Included in the article: All of the Cubs

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159706737870513312006-10-01T06:25:00.000-05:002006-10-01T07:45:37.890-05:00

While browsing the internet tonight, I came across the LiveJournal of one "johnnieb49"...what I found can only be described as shocking. The content is reproduced below.music: dashboard - the good fightmood: sorrowfuluggggh 2day suckd so bad. had to work overtime and didnt even get paid for it. i talked 2 carrie and she said that mr. h was telling her i might not get to come back next yr.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159661971349393712006-09-30T19:05:00.000-05:002006-10-01T23:43:55.473-05:00

From awkwardly titled All-everything Maddux leads Dodgers back into playoffs (article)It was fitting that Maddux (15-14) had much to do with the Dodgers' return to the playoffs. They acquired the 40-year-old from the Chicago Cubs on July 31 to give them a veteran arm for the stretch run -- and he won six games in Dodger Blue."It feels great," Maddux said. "I had a great time in Chicago. I'm glad

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159584626792608092006-09-29T21:39:00.000-05:002006-09-29T21:50:26.803-05:00

From article, "Baker May Enjoy Last Laugh"Former Cubs broadcaster Steve Stone was seen dining recently with John McDonough, the Cubs senior vice president of marketing and broadcasting. Sources insist it was just a social meeting between old friends, but if Brenly gets a managerial job, the door may be open for Stone's return to the Cubs' TV booth. It would be nice to finally be able to watch a

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159575256622169722006-09-29T18:36:00.000-05:002006-09-29T19:14:16.633-05:00

When Barrett does come back, he'll be wearing a cup that offers bullet-proof protection. They are on the market. "Once I get that thing, it's game on," he said. Muskat/Barrett manage to get Super Troopers and Wayne's World into the same story. And the original cup? It's now on display at a youth baseball complex Barrett is involved with in the Atlanta area.What?-----Juan Pierre notched his 200th

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159512521669547482006-09-29T01:37:00.000-05:002006-09-29T01:48:41.686-05:00

Buster Olney earlier today on Pedro Martinez:Pedro has nothing.Actually he has a tear in his left calf.It reminds me of when Doug Buffone interviewed Jerome Williams after he was traded to the Cubs, and criticized him for arriving at spring training twenty pounds overweight. When he asked Williams how he could justify himself, Williams replied that his mother had died in the winter and his father

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159468254402544402006-09-28T12:28:00.000-05:002006-09-28T13:30:55.300-05:00

Sep 27 The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan reports Chicago Cubs SP Rich Hill and SP Sean Marshall won't be in the rotation at the same time if manager Dusty Baker can help it, because Baker believes it would signal the club is in rebuilding mode. "Right now Hill has pitched better," he said. "It depends on whether you want to develop, or do you want to win the pennant? That's the first thing you

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159351914326259382006-09-27T03:40:00.000-05:002006-09-27T05:11:54.466-05:00

Remember the Worst Batters Of My Life spectacle? Here comes its pitching equivalent. Rules: Again, only time spent with the Cubs and during my lifetime (8/5/82-present) count. Pitchers must have 162 IP to qualify.We'll go ten deep here, as a) it is a fairly arbitrary number, and b) it will allow me to start the list with this man, a true lousy Cub pitcher if ever there was one...10) Glendon

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159214567990127782006-09-25T15:01:00.000-05:002006-09-25T15:02:48.003-05:00

Dusty Baker, describing another disastrous outing by Ryan Dempster, which resulted in his ninth blown save--and ninth loss--of the year: "You don't want to beat a dead horse to death," Baker said.Sometimes, Dusty, you really want to.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159180664847245022006-09-25T04:53:00.000-05:002006-09-25T05:37:44.863-05:00

Watching the Bears earlier today, I found myself thinking of 2001...you know, the last time they looked really good? This got me thinking about past times that certain other teams have looked good, and my mind flashed back to a Sunday much like this one, eight years ago.In 1998, you all remember Trachsel taking a no-hitter into the seventh in the playoff game with the Giants. What you may not

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159044541375145282006-09-23T15:19:00.000-05:002006-09-23T15:49:01.400-05:00

Dusty Baker, on what helped the Cubs score 22 runs in two games, September 17-18: "No. 1, we're getting our leadoff man on early," Cubs manager Dusty Baker said.Number 1: The Cubs hit ten home runs in two games, hitting .392 (33/84). They were also aided by two Phillies errors.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1159005386090598442006-09-23T03:14:00.000-05:002006-09-23T04:56:26.690-05:00

To Pandrew: While I was in the hospital for a night and on bed rest for two more days, I'm glad that you kept things active. Much love, amigo.To ESPN's Bottom Line: For the funniest thing I've seen all day -- "Colts DE Dwight Freeney (buttocks) and K Adam Vinatieri (groin) questionable for Sunday's game with Jaguars." Questionable, indeed!To Chris Young: Here's to one of THS' favorite non-Cubs,

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158541265806332092006-09-17T18:53:00.000-05:002006-09-17T20:01:05.820-05:00

Here's a concept: An all-star team, except the opposite. Thanks to the searchable database at BaseballMusings.com, you can search for all sorts of things...including the answer to my question: "Who are the worst Cub hitters of my lifetime?"The rules: Only statistics compiled with the Cubs are eligible. The date range is 8/5/1982 until today, 9/16/2006. That's a bit over 24 years of general crap.

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158513474896402392006-09-17T12:11:00.000-05:002006-09-17T12:17:54.906-05:00

Read here.CHICAGO -- Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee could be out for the rest of the season because of his 3-year-old daughter's illness. Lee had missed the last two games before he said Sunday he was taking a leave of absence to be with his wife and child. "My daughter's lost some vision in one eye and we'll find out more at a later time; we have to go through some more tests," Lee said in

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158501299206757342006-09-17T07:58:00.000-05:002006-09-17T08:54:59.336-05:00

Since I'm not a writer for MLB.com, I'm not sure what the requirement is for writing the headlines on any team's website, but I'm pretty sure they must involve a cheesy play on words. Case in point: the headline recapping the Cubs' victory yesterday over Cincy with Rich Hill having thrown a two-hit shutout reads, "King of the Hill: Rich throws dandy two-hitter."Don't get me wrong, Hill had a

Junior Mnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158484605233634342006-09-17T02:45:00.000-05:002006-09-17T04:16:45.336-05:00

bananawithmilk: With my luck, I'll be visited by Andy Pratt, who will try to kill me.bananawithmilk: And miss.--------March 26, 2004:PHOENIX -- The Chicago Cubs traded pitchers Juan Cruz and Steve Smyth to the Atlanta Braves on Thursday for minor league left-hander Andy Pratt and infielder Richard Lewis.I have always, always liked Juan Cruz, because he throws in the mid 90s despite weighing 35

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158415251304762152006-09-16T08:42:00.000-05:002006-09-16T10:38:07.996-05:00

Though witnessing any more Cub games for the remainder of the 2006 season is an exercise in self-mutilation, I had Friday's game on the radio while I was at work and during a commercial break, I heard their new angle for pushing that near-undrinkable swill better known as "Old Style Beer." One could argue that removing the word "Style" from their label would save them money on printing costs

Junior Mnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158393853762693352006-09-16T02:44:00.000-05:002006-09-16T03:07:42.010-05:00

That's about the only way to describe what he's done this year, particularly in his last ten appearances (8/22-9/12). Let's have a look.10 IP, 17 H, 6 BB, 2.30 WHIP, 12 R, 10 ER, 8 KLet us put this into perspective. Here are Jon Papelbon's numbers on the year next to Dumpster's on the ten-game stretch.Dumpster: 10 IP, 17 H, 6 BB, 12 R, 10 ERPapelbon : 68.1 IP, 40 H, 13 BB, 8 R, 7 ER.Here's

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158301943119859542006-09-15T01:30:00.000-05:002006-09-16T01:06:50.786-05:00

So Glendon Rusch has a blood clot in his lung. There are only two ways I hope this ends, one outcome acceptable, one outcome more favorable.1) Headline: "Rusch fully recovered from blood clot surgery" (acceptable)2) Headline: "Rusch fully recovered from blood clot surgery, but will never pitch again."

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158215952538207982006-09-14T01:13:00.000-05:002006-09-14T01:39:12.823-05:00

Backup punter accused of stabbing starter in legTHIS, ladies and gentlemen, is some hardcore shit. Let's break it down.1) While this is not the first time a special teamer has been stabbed by a teammate in Colorado collegiate athletics, it is the first known time that the assailant used a knife.2) The backup punter taped over his car's license plates, attacked the starter, and then went to a

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158200081955797082006-09-13T20:43:00.000-05:002006-09-14T10:53:59.926-05:00

Dusty, on the Cubs' six errors in Tuesday's 9-8 win: "You guys ever make typos? You've got spell check. There ain't no ball check out there."-Pandrew

toddhundleysuckshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14981132775410052595noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158125995753197722006-09-13T00:22:00.000-05:002006-09-13T00:39:55.903-05:00

Player News from ROTOWIRESep. 12News: Dempster pitched a scoreless seventh inning Monday, allowing one hit and striking out one, the Cubs' Web Site reports.Why is this news, you ask? Well, before that scoreless seventh, Dempster had allowed earned runs in SEVEN straight appearances. That led me to a question: Who was the last Cub to allow earned runs in SEVEN straight appearances? With the

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158109771863731322006-09-12T20:07:00.000-05:002006-09-12T20:09:39.776-05:00

Seriously, look at this headline:"Royals' Gordon Named Top Minor Leaguer"Prior and Wood both received votes for their incredible rehab starts.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1158065113540323512006-09-12T06:31:00.000-05:002006-09-12T07:45:33.210-05:00

The Campaign for A-Train to Topple Hendry (or At Least Oneri) (CATTHALO for short) continues."Since we're talking about Brown anyway," says Paul, which wasn't exactly true, since the scouts were now distinctly not talking about Brown, "there's a list of hitters I want to talk about. All of these guys share certain qualities. They are the eight guys we definitely want. And we want all eight of

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157957837793107822006-09-11T00:07:00.000-05:002006-09-11T01:57:18.036-05:00

banana with milk (Pandrew): i couldn't find a pic of wil wheaton in his underwear covered in leeches, which was disappointing.MidnightGambler5 (A-Train): well, there's something to add to my next blog post.The funny thing is, we weren't even talking about blogging, just people whom we find attractive.So, while recovering from this disastrous week of football/a severe Guinness hangover, I wanted

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157877899143086152006-09-10T03:03:00.000-05:002006-09-13T14:14:11.410-05:00

From "Notes: Barrett Considers Himself Blessed." (article)I'll bet he's not talking about the foul tip he took to the groin.ATLANTA -- Michael Barrett considers himself lucky and says he hopes he can play again this season. Barrett had to undergo surgery on his groin last Saturday, and is on the disabled list with an intrascrotal hematoma. He had some trouble recovering from the anesthetic and

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157875413770004452006-09-10T02:08:00.000-05:002006-09-10T03:03:33.866-05:00

How could we do this without you, Carrie? (article)Cubs starters have gone at least five innings in 57 starts this season heading into Saturday's game. They've gone fewer than five innings in 40 of those games.1) Cubs starters have gone at least five innings in 57 of their 142 starts2) Hm. Either a) they have gone fewer than five innings of 40 of the 57 games in which they went at least five

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157847848236487052006-09-09T19:16:00.000-05:002006-09-09T19:31:20.023-05:00

Third baseman Alex Rodriguez didn't start Saturday because he felt ill. Torre thought Rodriguez might be available to pinch hit, but he didn't play. "It's weird. The last time we were here, it was the same exact thing," Torre said. "I don't know if he's eating at the same place or what. Whatever the heck it is, it certainly hasn't worked very well."Do you want to know what Alex has been eating,

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157847008495574702006-09-09T18:57:00.000-05:002006-09-09T19:10:08.613-05:00

from a comment left on entry, "Your Mild Cold Has Been Updated To Forever", 9/7"Isringhausen is probably injured. His career GB/FB ratio is 1.44, but this year's is 1.18, the lowest it's been since 1999. Either he's changed his mechanics and begun leaving balls out over the plate (ten homers allowed is a career high as a reliever), or he's injured and leaving balls out over the plate."Whoever

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157789677909684092006-09-09T03:07:00.000-05:002006-09-09T04:04:34.900-05:00

First off, something rather pleasant, taken from the ESPN Cubs' "Player Card":3B Aramis Ramirez came into the game with a .971 fielding percentage, the highest among NL third basemen and fourth in the majors.He doesn't look it, but I'll be damned. Maybe he's just letting more balls through for hits, or maybe more balls are reaching the outfield. Actually, last year the Cubs had a groundball/

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157747555976087792006-09-08T15:18:00.000-05:002006-09-08T15:33:55.600-05:00

Boyfriend Kills Founder Of Grady's LadiesPolice said the national attention of the fan club could be the reason Mielecki's boyfriend shot and killed her Saturday before taking his own life. "You know we were just doing interviews and at the game and everything, had our pictures taken and now it's just kind of come to a stop, what do you do now?" said Amanda Bonnell. "It's hard."Other fan club

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157745285616162182006-09-08T14:13:00.000-05:002006-09-08T14:54:45.663-05:00

David AardsmaFrom powerhouse RiceTo power outage north sideCulture shock much, Dave?Angel GuzmanHe throws seventyinnings per year - as starter?Fucking made of glass.Rich HillLots of vicious curves.Lots of swinging strikeouts, too.Lots of hangers bombed.Carlos MarmolSeven walks per nineUnacceptable! Really,SEVEN WALKS PER NINE?Sean MarshallActually not toobad - hard to be derisive.Also hurt, no

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157668155655845192006-09-07T17:22:00.000-05:002006-09-07T17:29:15.656-05:00

I think the title speaks for itself.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157658290553630192006-09-07T14:16:00.000-05:002006-09-07T14:44:50.950-05:00

Mike (St. Louis): Travis Hafner is the best hitter in baseball every season???? I think Albert Pujols might disagree with you. Rob Neyer: If Pujols played in a real league he'd be lucky to bat .260 with 20 home runs.--ESPN chat log, 8/25I heard about this while I was on vacation in St. Louis. The message board which my Cardinal fan friend got this tidbit from also reported that John Mabry had

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157654311197216112006-09-07T12:48:00.000-05:002006-09-07T13:45:10.610-05:00

From article, Notes: Dempster in Cubs' future plans (link)Here it comes.CHICAGO -- Ryan Dempster is the Cubs closer for the rest of this season and most likely next year, manager Dusty Baker said Wednesday.How can you know what your players are going to do next year when you probably won't be the manager next year? It's not like you're the president and can do some quick midnight appointments

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157589308080141002006-09-06T18:19:00.000-05:002006-09-06T19:38:45.936-05:00

Sept 23, 1998. With two outs in the bottom of the ninth, the Cubs leading 7-5, and the bases loaded, an error by defensive replacement/left fielder Brant Brown allows three runs to score, giving the Brewers an 8-7 victory. The Cubs had the opportunity to clinch the Wild Card with a win but would have to wait until Sept. 26th to do so.What became of Brant Brown? On December 14, 1998 he was traded

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157545198405989882006-09-06T06:58:00.000-05:002006-09-06T17:05:57.930-05:00

As of now, September 6th, 2006, with less than 25 games remaining on the schedule, the Cubs now have the worst record in the NL central, the worst record in the entire NL, and the third-worst record in all of baseball (barely ahead of Tampa and Kansas City).Their pitchers are 27th in team ERA (4.79) and 1st in the league in walks (576). Sure, they're also leading in K's, but when you're almost 30

Junior Mnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157528360866316742006-09-06T02:27:00.000-05:002006-09-06T02:41:40.966-05:00

To show solidarity with our fallen hero, I would like to present this very special Sausage-Free Saturday. (In order to preserve continuity, we've reverted to the Julian calendar. Don't worry about it. Besides, it's only fair - dates in the Julian calendar are referred to as Old Style.)Tonight, while watching the Nationals/Misappropriated State Birds on a slow night at work, I came across

A-Trainhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01030042997829646878noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157526537782276392006-09-06T01:03:00.000-05:002006-09-06T02:08:57.986-05:00

Only the percentages can get worse, folks: When the Cubs wake up Wednesday, they'll be at the bottom of the standings. (article)CHICAGO -- There have been a lot of low points this season for the Cubs, but on Tuesday they reached another one, falling into last place in the National League Central.No argument there."I'm sure there are people who don't want to see me out there when the game's on the

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33445922.post-1157476934300286532006-09-05T12:18:00.000-05:002006-09-05T12:22:14.310-05:00

With a win Tuesday, the Pirates would pass the Cubs, who would drop into last place in the Central.Even more futile than Carrie Muskat's "most historically futile" team in baseball.

Pandrewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05640015739422914821noreply@blogger.com0