What goes around, comes around.
The Cubs 6-0 win over the Reds coupled with the Padres 6-3 victory over the Brewers made the Cubs champions of the National League Central Division for the first time since 2003.
The Cubs clinching victory came 159 games after the Cubs stumbled out of the gate in that very same Great American Ball Park. Even Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano acknowledged that.
“This one was very important to me. We started the season here. Before the game, I was thinking: Here we started, and here we finish," Big Z said about clinching in Cincinnati.
Zambrano (18-12, 3.95 ERA) pitched seven strong innings of shutout baseball, en route to his career-high 18th victory.
Left fielder Alfonso Soriano set the tone with a two-strike lead-off home run off Reds starter Bronson Arroyo. Derrek Lee would later add a two-run homer, and that is all the scoring the Cubs would need.
Meanwhile, in Milwaukee, former Cub Greg Maddux picked up the victory over the Brewers when closer Trevor Hoffman struck out Rickie Weeks picking up the save and clinching the Cubs playoff berth.
In a sense, both Zambrano and Maddux pitched the Cubs into the playoffs on Friday night. How's that for stars aligning?
Tonight, I want to reflect on this year.
Watching the 2007 Cubs was like watching a movie about the 2007 Cubs, with the multitude of story lines.
$300 million worth of new players and coaches including the new face of the franchise, manager Lou Piniella. An ownership in flux, led by interim president and former marketing guru John McDonough.
And when the season started, the Brewers raced out to a 24-10 record and the Cubs fell nine games below .500.
While some thought he was asleep at the wheel for the first two months, Piniella was really unraveling the mess brought to him by General Manager Jim Hendry and turned the Cubs into a winning ball club.
It took a hamstring injury to move Soriano from center field to left field. It took a clubhouse fight at the hands of Zambrano for the Cubs to dump fan favorite catcher Michael Barrett. The poor play of Wade Miller and Cesar Izturis combined with the positive contributions of Sean Marshall and Ryan Theriot led to Miller's demise and Izturis' trade to Pittsburgh.
And really, that's where the major difference between Piniella and former Cubs manager Dusty Baker is. Both Piniella and Baker said that they liked young players, however only Piniella walked the walk.
When things went wrong early, Piniella demanded players that could "pitch and catch the damn ball." Everyone from Cubs fans to sports talk radio hosts laughed at Piniella's expense, but in the end it was Piniella and the Cubs having the last laugh.
If not for other strong candidates for Manager of the Year, Piniella would be a shoe in. The way he mixed veteran star power, youthful exuberance and a well-timed tirade will not soon be forgotten by Cubdom.
One of the most memorable Piniella moments (besides the tirade that "kick"-started the Cubs second half run) was when he called for Theriot to lay down a suicide squeeze in the 9th inning of a 1-1 ballgame against the Chicago White Sox and their ace closer Bobby Jenks. It was successful, and the Cubs would win that game and sweep that series in one of the turning points of the 2007 season.
But the manager can only get so much credit. Really, all Piniella did was put his players in the best position to win.
Free-agent signee Mark DeRosa proved to be the Cubs MVP (Most Versatile Player.) DeRosa made at least one appearance at each position in the infield, as well as both left and right field. As the year went on, DeRosa would become one of the Cubs clubhouse and on field leaders.
Carlos Marmol, who baseball analyst Steve Stone last year said that Marmol was miscast as a starting pitcher and was better suited as a late inning pitcher, proved Stone to be right. Marmol excelled as Piniella's bullpen ace, notching 95 strikeouts in 68 and 1/3 innings.
Jason Marquis, another free agent signee, put his horrid 2006 behind him and posted a 12-9 record with a 4.43 ERA as a starter--proving (for one year at least) that his 6.02 ERA in '06 was a fluke.
Ted Lilly, who was signed while Hendry was in a hospital bed, put up ace-like numbers (15-8) and was 9-2 after a Cubs loss.
The group that won't get as much credit as they should is the Tribune Company. For years, Cubs fans (like myself) pined for the Tribsters to spend the cash that the fans put into that team. Crane Kenney and Dennis FitzSimons deserve a lot of the credit for allowing McDonough and Hendry to spend the right amount of money on the right guys
LOOKING AHEAD
The Cubs will now head out west to play the Arizona Diamondbacks, winners of the NL West and will throw out Zambrano and Lilly in games one and two of the NLDS, which is scheduled to begin on Wednesday night in Arizona.
Winning the division was only the first step. The magic number now stands at 11. 11 being the number of games the Cubs need to win in order to win their first World Series since 1908.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Miscellaneous Baseball Thoughts
Miscellaneous baseball thoughts from Wednesday September 26th 2007.
AN OPEN LETTER TO TONY LARUSSA:
Dear Tony,
Thank you for beating the Brewers tonight. If the Cubs end up winning the NL Central, next time you're in Chicago, drinks are on me. And so is the cab.
Sincerely,
Cubdom
THE THREE PHASES OF THE TRUE CUBS FAN:
THE ETERNAL OPTIMIST: Yeah, the Cubs have lost the last two games but look on the bright side. The magic number is down to three. Meaning any combination of three Cubs wins or Brewers losses makes the Cubs the NL Central champions. The Brewers have to play the Padres who are fighting for their playoff lives and will likely face Chris Young, Greg Maddux and Jake Peavy. The Cubs go to Cincinnati to face the Reds who are already eliminated, and without their two biggest power threats: Adam Dunn and Ken Griffey Jr.
THE PESSIMIST: The Cubs are gonna blow it. You know why? Because they're the Cubs and they always blow it. It's what they've always done and it's what they will always do. They always find a new and interesting way to blow it, so at least we all know it will be entertaining!
THE REALIST: With four games left and the magic number standing at three, the Cubs chances at winning the division stand above 90%. The Cubs have played way below their potential and have three of their best pitchers going for them this weekend against the Reds. They also have a manager who has been in this situation before, and unlike some managers, will put the importance of the game at hand above retaliation.
RANDOM THOUGHTS:
AN OPEN LETTER TO TONY LARUSSA:
Dear Tony,
Thank you for beating the Brewers tonight. If the Cubs end up winning the NL Central, next time you're in Chicago, drinks are on me. And so is the cab.
Sincerely,
Cubdom
THE THREE PHASES OF THE TRUE CUBS FAN:
THE ETERNAL OPTIMIST: Yeah, the Cubs have lost the last two games but look on the bright side. The magic number is down to three. Meaning any combination of three Cubs wins or Brewers losses makes the Cubs the NL Central champions. The Brewers have to play the Padres who are fighting for their playoff lives and will likely face Chris Young, Greg Maddux and Jake Peavy. The Cubs go to Cincinnati to face the Reds who are already eliminated, and without their two biggest power threats: Adam Dunn and Ken Griffey Jr.
THE PESSIMIST: The Cubs are gonna blow it. You know why? Because they're the Cubs and they always blow it. It's what they've always done and it's what they will always do. They always find a new and interesting way to blow it, so at least we all know it will be entertaining!
THE REALIST: With four games left and the magic number standing at three, the Cubs chances at winning the division stand above 90%. The Cubs have played way below their potential and have three of their best pitchers going for them this weekend against the Reds. They also have a manager who has been in this situation before, and unlike some managers, will put the importance of the game at hand above retaliation.
RANDOM THOUGHTS:
- If the Padres can somehow take three of four games from Milwaukee, Cubs fans might have to take back all of those nasty things they said about the Padres in 1984 (at least for one weekend.)
- Miami's Joe Robbie/Pro Player/Dolphin Stadium is the new house of horrors for Chicago sports fans. Between the Bears and the Cubs, they are winless in their last 11 games against the Miami franchise--and are winless in 2007 in Dolphin Stadium.
- If the Cubs can't beat Dontrelle Willis (who entered Tuesday's game 9-15 with a 5.32 ERA) or Daniel Barone (1-3, 5.30 ERA entering Wednesday) then how are they gonna beat Cub killers Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo?
- Also, why do I have a feeling that former Cub Buck Coats is gonna come back and bite the hand that once fed him.
- I know that Steve Trachsel is scheduled to start against the Marlins on Thursday. I don't think that's a good idea. Start Rich Hill on normal rest--every game counts--especially ones that could decide the fate of the NL Central.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
I've Seen This Episode Before....Part Two
A week ago I posted this blog drawing a comparison between the 2007 Cubs team going for the NL Central title and the 2004 Cubs going for the NL Wild Card and how both Cubs teams had to play the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field in a critical series.
That blog was titled "I've seen this episode before...and I didn't like the way it ended the first time." This is part two of that blog.
Tonight I will compare this Cubs team and the 2003 Cubs.
With a magic number of four, the Cubs go to Miami to play the Florida Marlins with their playoff fates in their own hands.
And today, just like in 2003, they laid an egg when they had an opportunity to move one step closer to the ultimate goal of Cubdom.
Tonight's 4-2 loss isn't as disheartening as any of their losses in the 2003 NLCS, but this could rank up there if the Cubs don't make the playoffs.
The Cubs offense, which blew up in the three game sweep against the Pirates at Wrigley this weekend, just blew tonight against Dontrelle Willis and the Marlins.
The Cubs runs came off the bat of Craig Monroe, whose eighth inning two-run homer off of Willis. But that was all the scoring the Cubs would do.
They mustered only three hits off of Willis, Lee Gardener and Taylor Tankersley who picked up his first save by getting Cliff Floyd to fly out deep to left center to end the ball game.
As of right now, the Brewers look like they'll move within two games of the first place Cubs because they're leading the hapless Cardinals 7-1.
With the magic number standing at four, it doesn't look like the Cubs will clinch against the Marlins (which would be poetic justice in my eyes.) Instead, this will likely be one of the most excruciatingly painful weeks in recent Cubs history.
It'd be quite beneficial for the Cubs to clinch sooner rather than later so they can set their rotation for the first round of the playoffs. But at this point, you've gotta get there first!
There are still two more games against the Marlins and the Cubs could conceivably win those two games and cut the magic number in half without any help from the Cardinals.
It's more likely that the Cubs will clinch in Cincy, but it won't get any easier. The Reds have set up their rotation so the Cubs face both of the Reds aces, Bronson Arroyo and Aaron Harang.
Still, the Cubs have their work cut out for them and they control their own destiny.
To quote Al Davis, "Just win, baby!"
That blog was titled "I've seen this episode before...and I didn't like the way it ended the first time." This is part two of that blog.
Tonight I will compare this Cubs team and the 2003 Cubs.
With a magic number of four, the Cubs go to Miami to play the Florida Marlins with their playoff fates in their own hands.
And today, just like in 2003, they laid an egg when they had an opportunity to move one step closer to the ultimate goal of Cubdom.
Tonight's 4-2 loss isn't as disheartening as any of their losses in the 2003 NLCS, but this could rank up there if the Cubs don't make the playoffs.
The Cubs offense, which blew up in the three game sweep against the Pirates at Wrigley this weekend, just blew tonight against Dontrelle Willis and the Marlins.
The Cubs runs came off the bat of Craig Monroe, whose eighth inning two-run homer off of Willis. But that was all the scoring the Cubs would do.
They mustered only three hits off of Willis, Lee Gardener and Taylor Tankersley who picked up his first save by getting Cliff Floyd to fly out deep to left center to end the ball game.
As of right now, the Brewers look like they'll move within two games of the first place Cubs because they're leading the hapless Cardinals 7-1.
With the magic number standing at four, it doesn't look like the Cubs will clinch against the Marlins (which would be poetic justice in my eyes.) Instead, this will likely be one of the most excruciatingly painful weeks in recent Cubs history.
It'd be quite beneficial for the Cubs to clinch sooner rather than later so they can set their rotation for the first round of the playoffs. But at this point, you've gotta get there first!
There are still two more games against the Marlins and the Cubs could conceivably win those two games and cut the magic number in half without any help from the Cardinals.
It's more likely that the Cubs will clinch in Cincy, but it won't get any easier. The Reds have set up their rotation so the Cubs face both of the Reds aces, Bronson Arroyo and Aaron Harang.
Still, the Cubs have their work cut out for them and they control their own destiny.
To quote Al Davis, "Just win, baby!"
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
I've Seen This Episode Before...
...and I didn't like how it ended the first time.
In 2004, life was good. I was happily one month into my freshman year at SIU and the Cubs were on their way to winning the Wild Card.
Then a disasterous weekend in New York came, in which the Cubs blew the second and third games of that series.
Still, they had a lead in the NL Wild Card and came home to play the woeful Cincinnati Reds and dominated the Reds in game one. But then would go on to lose the next three games.
I'll never forget game three, Mark Prior pitched the game of his life, striking out 16 reds in nine innings of work. That was the first time I felt heartbreak in college.
The Cubs would go on to lose the Wild Card to the Houston Astros, Sammy Sosa walked out on Cubdom and Sosa's boom box was destroyed. Thus, the beginning of the end of the Dusty Baker era.
Let's fast forward to 2007.
The Cubs entered today's game with a one game lead over the Brewers, however after tonight's loss to the Reds (coupled with the Brewers win) the Cubs find themselves tied for first with under two weeks of games left to be played.
I'm not a big fan of repeating history, especially when repeating history will likely cause me to go on a major drinking binge. But I have faith in this year's Cubs team.
I have more faith in Lou Piniella handling a bullpen than I did in Dusty Baker. But that's where that faith ends.
The 2004 Cubs were more talented. They had a more prolific offense and a healthy Prior and Wood.
To make things even more stressful, playoff tickets go on sale Sunday at 9 a.m. and the idea of paying for tickets for a non-guarantee is a big risk.
But once in a while, I need to take a risk. And for the Cubs, I'm willing to take that risk. Mostly because I'm half crazy. But also, because I have faith and the last time I bought playoff tickets with the division hanging in the balance the Cubs won it in 2003.
Now that is history worth repeating.
There's plenty of games to be played. Tied for first place, the Cubs & Brewers "magic number" stands at 12.
In 2004, life was good. I was happily one month into my freshman year at SIU and the Cubs were on their way to winning the Wild Card.
Then a disasterous weekend in New York came, in which the Cubs blew the second and third games of that series.
Still, they had a lead in the NL Wild Card and came home to play the woeful Cincinnati Reds and dominated the Reds in game one. But then would go on to lose the next three games.
I'll never forget game three, Mark Prior pitched the game of his life, striking out 16 reds in nine innings of work. That was the first time I felt heartbreak in college.
The Cubs would go on to lose the Wild Card to the Houston Astros, Sammy Sosa walked out on Cubdom and Sosa's boom box was destroyed. Thus, the beginning of the end of the Dusty Baker era.
Let's fast forward to 2007.
The Cubs entered today's game with a one game lead over the Brewers, however after tonight's loss to the Reds (coupled with the Brewers win) the Cubs find themselves tied for first with under two weeks of games left to be played.
I'm not a big fan of repeating history, especially when repeating history will likely cause me to go on a major drinking binge. But I have faith in this year's Cubs team.
I have more faith in Lou Piniella handling a bullpen than I did in Dusty Baker. But that's where that faith ends.
The 2004 Cubs were more talented. They had a more prolific offense and a healthy Prior and Wood.
To make things even more stressful, playoff tickets go on sale Sunday at 9 a.m. and the idea of paying for tickets for a non-guarantee is a big risk.
But once in a while, I need to take a risk. And for the Cubs, I'm willing to take that risk. Mostly because I'm half crazy. But also, because I have faith and the last time I bought playoff tickets with the division hanging in the balance the Cubs won it in 2003.
Now that is history worth repeating.
There's plenty of games to be played. Tied for first place, the Cubs & Brewers "magic number" stands at 12.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Weekend Recap: Cubs, Cards & Other Animals Too
All I have to say is: "Wow, what a weekend!" Lots to recap, let's get it crackin'!
CUBS VS. CARDS WEEKEND
In September, every series is critical but when you're hanging on to first place by the slimmest of margins. But when you're playing your top rival, everything is magnified to the fullest. Even with all that pressure on the Cubs, they still won three of four games in St. Louis against the Cardinals and maintained their one game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Carlos Zambrano picked up the win Friday night by pitching eight innings and allowing only one run. Daryle Ward's clutch three-run pinch-hit double in the ninth was the difference in the ballgame. Ward is batting .333 against the Cards this year.
The Cubs won game one of Saturday's double header behind Alfonso Soriano's game winning two run home run in the eighth inning. Kerry Wood picked up his first win as a reliever in the contest. Soriano also hit a two-run homer in game two giving the Cubs a short-lived 3-0 lead that starter Sean Marshall could not hold. The Cards won game two 4-3.
In game four, Jason Marquis pitched good enough to earn his 12th win this year, and his second victory against his former mates. On September 1st, I mentioned that Marquis should be the most motivated Cub, seeing that the Cards left him off the NLCS and World Series roster. The Cubs should have scored more than four runs, they left 14 guys on base. They left more guys in scoring position than a prude virgin. Youngsters Matt Murton (three run home run) and Geovany Soto (4-for-5) led the Cubs at the plate in the 4-2 victory.
By taking three-of-four this weekend, the Cards fell to seven games behind the first place Cubs, marking what could be the beginning of the end of the Cardinals reign as World Champions. Currently, the Cards have a .339% chance of making the playoffs. Somewhere, Marquis is kicking dirt on a make-shift Cardinals grave.
Just call 'em the "Deadbirds."
BIG FOOTBALL WEEKEND
Indeed, it was a big weekend for my favorite football teams. Michigan stomped Notre Dame 38-0 for their first win of the season. Mike Hart led the Wolverines (1-2) rushing for 187 yards and 2 TDs, while Notre Dame (0-3) has yet to score an offensive touchdown this season.
No. 6 SIU moved to 3-0 this weekend after beating Southern Utah 44-10. Quarterback Nick Hill (who happens to be a Cubs fan) threw four touchdowns to spark the offensive attack. This coming one week after SIU's 34-31 upset victory over in-state rival NIU last week in DeKalb.
Sunday, the Bears (1-1) beat the Chiefs 20-10 at Soldier Field. In a refrain familiar to Bears fans, today's victory was sparked by the defense and a punt return touchdown by Devin Hester. Also, Cedric Benson picked up his first 100-yard game in the NFL.
A WEEKEND AT THE BARS
It's not an official weekend in Carbondale unless there is bar hopping involved, and this weekend was no exception. Friday night earned a star in my book. Gatsby's II was off the chain, mostly because of the atmosphere. Their drinks are expensive ($5 long islands, $2.75 for a Miller Lite) but the crowd and the music made up for it. Friday's DJ played all the hot current music you would want to hear while enjoying a night on the town. It was like he jacked my I-pod for the night.
Saturday, however wasn't that good---mostly because the DJ sucked. So I've come to the conclusion that Gatsby's is the place to be on Friday nights. Saturday nights, however, are still up in the air. Something will get figured out by next Saturday, I'm sure.
MISCELLANEOUS HAPPENINGS
CUBS VS. CARDS WEEKEND
In September, every series is critical but when you're hanging on to first place by the slimmest of margins. But when you're playing your top rival, everything is magnified to the fullest. Even with all that pressure on the Cubs, they still won three of four games in St. Louis against the Cardinals and maintained their one game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Carlos Zambrano picked up the win Friday night by pitching eight innings and allowing only one run. Daryle Ward's clutch three-run pinch-hit double in the ninth was the difference in the ballgame. Ward is batting .333 against the Cards this year.
The Cubs won game one of Saturday's double header behind Alfonso Soriano's game winning two run home run in the eighth inning. Kerry Wood picked up his first win as a reliever in the contest. Soriano also hit a two-run homer in game two giving the Cubs a short-lived 3-0 lead that starter Sean Marshall could not hold. The Cards won game two 4-3.
In game four, Jason Marquis pitched good enough to earn his 12th win this year, and his second victory against his former mates. On September 1st, I mentioned that Marquis should be the most motivated Cub, seeing that the Cards left him off the NLCS and World Series roster. The Cubs should have scored more than four runs, they left 14 guys on base. They left more guys in scoring position than a prude virgin. Youngsters Matt Murton (three run home run) and Geovany Soto (4-for-5) led the Cubs at the plate in the 4-2 victory.
By taking three-of-four this weekend, the Cards fell to seven games behind the first place Cubs, marking what could be the beginning of the end of the Cardinals reign as World Champions. Currently, the Cards have a .339% chance of making the playoffs. Somewhere, Marquis is kicking dirt on a make-shift Cardinals grave.
Just call 'em the "Deadbirds."
BIG FOOTBALL WEEKEND
Indeed, it was a big weekend for my favorite football teams. Michigan stomped Notre Dame 38-0 for their first win of the season. Mike Hart led the Wolverines (1-2) rushing for 187 yards and 2 TDs, while Notre Dame (0-3) has yet to score an offensive touchdown this season.
No. 6 SIU moved to 3-0 this weekend after beating Southern Utah 44-10. Quarterback Nick Hill (who happens to be a Cubs fan) threw four touchdowns to spark the offensive attack. This coming one week after SIU's 34-31 upset victory over in-state rival NIU last week in DeKalb.
Sunday, the Bears (1-1) beat the Chiefs 20-10 at Soldier Field. In a refrain familiar to Bears fans, today's victory was sparked by the defense and a punt return touchdown by Devin Hester. Also, Cedric Benson picked up his first 100-yard game in the NFL.
A WEEKEND AT THE BARS
It's not an official weekend in Carbondale unless there is bar hopping involved, and this weekend was no exception. Friday night earned a star in my book. Gatsby's II was off the chain, mostly because of the atmosphere. Their drinks are expensive ($5 long islands, $2.75 for a Miller Lite) but the crowd and the music made up for it. Friday's DJ played all the hot current music you would want to hear while enjoying a night on the town. It was like he jacked my I-pod for the night.
Saturday, however wasn't that good---mostly because the DJ sucked. So I've come to the conclusion that Gatsby's is the place to be on Friday nights. Saturday nights, however, are still up in the air. Something will get figured out by next Saturday, I'm sure.
MISCELLANEOUS HAPPENINGS
- I got a chance to work this weekend, that makes me happy because I like working...and I like getting paid. I have a newfound respect for officials. They take so much sh*t and have to put up with fans and players--it's only my first week, but it's a little nuts. In the end, I'm happy to be working again.
- I'm coming home in October, and it couldn't happen soon enough. I'm missing my peeps at home and a weekend in the Chi could work wonders for my mental state. I've also planned my trip to (hopefully) coincide with what would be game 3 of the NLDS (which would be played at Wrigley Field.) Yeah, I'm a loser 'cuz I've figured out the postseason schedule a month in advance. I can only imagine how it could be in Wrigleyville on a chilly October night with playoff baseball around the corner. I guess we'll find out in about 12 games.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Kanye West vs. 50 Cent: The Showdown
The biggest debate in hip-hop since Jay-Z vs. NaS will be decided starting today when Kanye West's third album Graduation* goes up against 50 Cent's third album Curtis.
A lot of media types will hype this as a "Battle Of The Titans," which is correct in a way. However, the media types don't seem to be focusing on the music aspect of each album. Instead, they seem to be hyping each artist's ego.
It'd be easy for me to pile on to that debate, but since I've listened to each album completely I am going to analyze Graduation and Curtis for their value in music.
GRADUATION, KANYE WEST
Following the theme of school related titles, West fittingly drops his third album Graduation. The title fits the album well, seeing that Kanye has developed into a bonifide hip-hop star since his first album and you can clearly hear it.
His first album, The College Dropout contained a lot of old school soul samples mixed with fresh drum beats lead by singles "Through the Wire" and "Slow Jamz" while his second album, Late Registration added the sounds of an orchestra and the co-production of Jon Brien to compliment the sounds of sped up soul samples led by the singles "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" and "Gold Digger."
Now with Graduation Kanye takes his game to a whole new level, adding the sounds of a synthesizer, popularized by Timbaland's album Shock Value. Kanye's effort on this album clearly makes it his best work to date.
One of the more noticeable changes is that the album contains no skits which helps move the album along seamlessly. In addition, Kanye has guest spots by only two rappers, Lil' Wayne and Mos Def. Wayne appears on the track "Barry Bonds" while Mos only sings on the track "Drunk and Hot Girls."
With that said, Graduation is more of a dissertation with Kanye wanting the listener to focus on what he has to say rather than what supporting rappers would.
The album is headed by two hot singles, "Can't Tell Me Nothing" and "Stronger." The first single, "Can't Tell Me Nothing" is Exhibit A of Kanye's improved lyrical ability with a slew of consecutive punchlines to go along with the infections "La la la la, wait 'til I get my money right" chorus.
In addition, the pattern of Kanye being one-upped by collaborators (i.e. Common on the track "Get 'Em High or Mos Def on the track "Two Words") ends with the track "Barry Bonds", his collaboration with Lil' Wayne in which 'Ye spits punchline after punchline including the gem " I'm insulted/ you should go 'head/ and bow so hard till yo knees hit yo fo' head."
"Stronger" is more of a club banger with pounding drum sounds that remind the casual hip-hop fan of "Gold Digger." Here Kanye samples Daft Punk's "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger" perfectly providing hip-hop with a hit that could make its claim as the song of the summer.
The third single "Good Life" features T-Pain, another perfectly timed collaboration because of his recent run of hits. His use of the vocoder blends well with the track. Another intriguing collaboration occurs on the track "Homecoming" which features Chris Martin, the lead singer of the band Coldplay. Another example of Kanye capitalizing on what's hot in music now.
The album closes with the track "Big Brother" which is Kanye's ode to Jay-Z. Really, you can't have Graduation without giving credit to those who helped you get to that point. As a whole, Kanye earns an 'A' with Graduation.
CURTIS, 50 CENT
50 Cent came onto the hip-hop scene strong with his debut Get Rich Or Die Trying, riding the coattails of mentor Eminem, legendary producer Dr. Dre, and the street-banging single "Wanksta." 50 made more early waves with his very public beef with rapper Ja Rule, whose career would be ended by several Eminem and 50 Cent diss tracks.
Since then, 50 Cent's musical career has drastically changed course.
In his second album, The Massacre, 50 seemingly started to sing on tracks which was something he dissed Ja Rule about, discrediting Ja as a rapper.
Though he had several hits from the album including the Dr. Dre produced "Disco Inferno" and the Scott Storch produced "Candy Shop" and "Just A Lil' Bit", 50 felt the wrath of the hip-hop community.
Whether it was his competition who he dissed in the track "Piggy Bank" like Fat Joe, Jadakiss and NaS or former label mate The Game, 50 turned off a lot of fans with his "beefs" in the industry.
50 took some time off from the game to star in a movie loosely based off his life and the accompanying album that didn't fare too well in the mainstream.
Now, 50 returns with his third studio album Curtis challenging West in the music stores. And admittedly, the album isn't completely terrible.
Led by the hit single "I Get Money," also 50 seems to go back to his early days with tracks like "My Gun Go Off", "I'll Still Kill" which features Akon, and "Come & Go" featuring production by Dr. Dre. 50 also changes the pace with the mellow "Follow My Lead" which features R&B singer Robin Thicke. 50's best move is letting singers do the singing while he raps.
However, that is where the compliments end with this album. 50's biggest shortcoming is that he still hasn't evolved lyrically, and that is clear in the smash single "Ayo Technology" which features Timbaland and Justin Timberlake.
Timbaland drops one of his most sinister sounding beats in recent memory, not to mention he raps on the bridge too. Timberlake does his thing, crooning "Aaayooo I'm tired of using technology, why don't you sit down on top of me / Aaayooo I'm tired of using technology, I need you right in front of me."
Bass heavy beats and top-bill collaborators can only take you so far. That's why Curtis can't come close to Graduation. Kanye seems to be able to do it all. His production improves seemingly with every track. Lyrically, Kanye continues to step his game up.
And even though 50 does come up short on the lyrical end of things, hearing the name 50 Cent is almost like hearing about the Yankees--you either love them or you love to hate them--no matter what they do.
Graduation: 5-stars
Curtis: 3-stars
*"Bittersweet Poetry" appears as the I-Tunes bonus and features John Mayer. The Japanese edition of Graduation contains the tracks "Good Night" which features Mos Def and the "Can't Tell Me Nothing Official Remix" which features a new verse from Kanye and an additional verse from Young Jeezy. Those tracks were not taken into consideration when reviewing this album.
A lot of media types will hype this as a "Battle Of The Titans," which is correct in a way. However, the media types don't seem to be focusing on the music aspect of each album. Instead, they seem to be hyping each artist's ego.
It'd be easy for me to pile on to that debate, but since I've listened to each album completely I am going to analyze Graduation and Curtis for their value in music.
GRADUATION, KANYE WEST
Following the theme of school related titles, West fittingly drops his third album Graduation. The title fits the album well, seeing that Kanye has developed into a bonifide hip-hop star since his first album and you can clearly hear it.
His first album, The College Dropout contained a lot of old school soul samples mixed with fresh drum beats lead by singles "Through the Wire" and "Slow Jamz" while his second album, Late Registration added the sounds of an orchestra and the co-production of Jon Brien to compliment the sounds of sped up soul samples led by the singles "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" and "Gold Digger."
Now with Graduation Kanye takes his game to a whole new level, adding the sounds of a synthesizer, popularized by Timbaland's album Shock Value. Kanye's effort on this album clearly makes it his best work to date.
One of the more noticeable changes is that the album contains no skits which helps move the album along seamlessly. In addition, Kanye has guest spots by only two rappers, Lil' Wayne and Mos Def. Wayne appears on the track "Barry Bonds" while Mos only sings on the track "Drunk and Hot Girls."
With that said, Graduation is more of a dissertation with Kanye wanting the listener to focus on what he has to say rather than what supporting rappers would.
The album is headed by two hot singles, "Can't Tell Me Nothing" and "Stronger." The first single, "Can't Tell Me Nothing" is Exhibit A of Kanye's improved lyrical ability with a slew of consecutive punchlines to go along with the infections "La la la la, wait 'til I get my money right" chorus.
In addition, the pattern of Kanye being one-upped by collaborators (i.e. Common on the track "Get 'Em High or Mos Def on the track "Two Words") ends with the track "Barry Bonds", his collaboration with Lil' Wayne in which 'Ye spits punchline after punchline including the gem " I'm insulted/ you should go 'head/ and bow so hard till yo knees hit yo fo' head."
"Stronger" is more of a club banger with pounding drum sounds that remind the casual hip-hop fan of "Gold Digger." Here Kanye samples Daft Punk's "Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger" perfectly providing hip-hop with a hit that could make its claim as the song of the summer.
The third single "Good Life" features T-Pain, another perfectly timed collaboration because of his recent run of hits. His use of the vocoder blends well with the track. Another intriguing collaboration occurs on the track "Homecoming" which features Chris Martin, the lead singer of the band Coldplay. Another example of Kanye capitalizing on what's hot in music now.
The album closes with the track "Big Brother" which is Kanye's ode to Jay-Z. Really, you can't have Graduation without giving credit to those who helped you get to that point. As a whole, Kanye earns an 'A' with Graduation.
CURTIS, 50 CENT
50 Cent came onto the hip-hop scene strong with his debut Get Rich Or Die Trying, riding the coattails of mentor Eminem, legendary producer Dr. Dre, and the street-banging single "Wanksta." 50 made more early waves with his very public beef with rapper Ja Rule, whose career would be ended by several Eminem and 50 Cent diss tracks.
Since then, 50 Cent's musical career has drastically changed course.
In his second album, The Massacre, 50 seemingly started to sing on tracks which was something he dissed Ja Rule about, discrediting Ja as a rapper.
Though he had several hits from the album including the Dr. Dre produced "Disco Inferno" and the Scott Storch produced "Candy Shop" and "Just A Lil' Bit", 50 felt the wrath of the hip-hop community.
Whether it was his competition who he dissed in the track "Piggy Bank" like Fat Joe, Jadakiss and NaS or former label mate The Game, 50 turned off a lot of fans with his "beefs" in the industry.
50 took some time off from the game to star in a movie loosely based off his life and the accompanying album that didn't fare too well in the mainstream.
Now, 50 returns with his third studio album Curtis challenging West in the music stores. And admittedly, the album isn't completely terrible.
Led by the hit single "I Get Money," also 50 seems to go back to his early days with tracks like "My Gun Go Off", "I'll Still Kill" which features Akon, and "Come & Go" featuring production by Dr. Dre. 50 also changes the pace with the mellow "Follow My Lead" which features R&B singer Robin Thicke. 50's best move is letting singers do the singing while he raps.
However, that is where the compliments end with this album. 50's biggest shortcoming is that he still hasn't evolved lyrically, and that is clear in the smash single "Ayo Technology" which features Timbaland and Justin Timberlake.
Timbaland drops one of his most sinister sounding beats in recent memory, not to mention he raps on the bridge too. Timberlake does his thing, crooning "Aaayooo I'm tired of using technology, why don't you sit down on top of me / Aaayooo I'm tired of using technology, I need you right in front of me."
Bass heavy beats and top-bill collaborators can only take you so far. That's why Curtis can't come close to Graduation. Kanye seems to be able to do it all. His production improves seemingly with every track. Lyrically, Kanye continues to step his game up.
And even though 50 does come up short on the lyrical end of things, hearing the name 50 Cent is almost like hearing about the Yankees--you either love them or you love to hate them--no matter what they do.
Graduation: 5-stars
Curtis: 3-stars
*"Bittersweet Poetry" appears as the I-Tunes bonus and features John Mayer. The Japanese edition of Graduation contains the tracks "Good Night" which features Mos Def and the "Can't Tell Me Nothing Official Remix" which features a new verse from Kanye and an additional verse from Young Jeezy. Those tracks were not taken into consideration when reviewing this album.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
I Hate...
...being a Cubs fan.
There, I said it.
If there's any feeling that is lower than this, it's probably death.
Ryan Dempster, I hate you. I've hated you since 2004 when you decided you didn't want to get any one out in that game against the Mets which LaTroy Hawkins would later blow.
Today's game had the same feeling that game had.
Mr. Dempster, your assclown antics have no place in my heart or on my favorite team as long as you continue to walk the tightrope and ruin a great performance by Jason Marquis.
Daryle Ward, you're a pretty good pinch hitter....BUT STOP GETTING PICKED OFF YOU FAT F*CK!
If the Cardinals win this division, God help us all. You might as well enshrine Albert Pujols and Tony LaRussa in the Hall Of Fame immediately after game 162.
If the Brewers win, I won't feel as bad. That's a lie, I'll still feel like absolute crap who you will be able to find at the highest ledge around. But at least it's not the Cardinals.
I can't take many more games like this, let alone years like this. I'm taking a break because I have places to go (4:15 p.m.)
FIVE HOURS LATER
Now I am a lot more calm than I was around 4 p.m. when I was willing to take a six hour drive north to Chicago and put an end to the career of Mr. Dempster. However, I'm still more than peeved about the loss.
I don't hate being a Cubs fan. I hate being teased mercilessly by a team that seemingly looks for ways to piss off the most faithful fans in baseball. On to the rest of the blog...
Dempster has a million defenders, heck, I even defended him at one point. But it's hard to defend someone who makes my life miserable every time he takes the mound, whether he saves the game or not.
Had I been at the bar watching the game instead of calmly at my computer waiting for the game to end, I would have gone on a drinking spree that would still be going on.
So now I, like everyone else in Cubdom, am ready to appoint Carlos Marmol to be the new Cubs closer. Here are a list of guys I'd rather have closing out games than Demp:
Manager Lou Piniella should install Marmol as his closer, or risk blowing a chance at the NL Central title.
ADDITIONAL READING: I'm not the only one who hates Ryan Dempster!
There, I said it.
If there's any feeling that is lower than this, it's probably death.
Ryan Dempster, I hate you. I've hated you since 2004 when you decided you didn't want to get any one out in that game against the Mets which LaTroy Hawkins would later blow.
Today's game had the same feeling that game had.
- Great starting pitching.
- Clutch hitting
- A bullpen that decides to give up home runs and lose ballgames
Mr. Dempster, your assclown antics have no place in my heart or on my favorite team as long as you continue to walk the tightrope and ruin a great performance by Jason Marquis.
Daryle Ward, you're a pretty good pinch hitter....BUT STOP GETTING PICKED OFF YOU FAT F*CK!
If the Cardinals win this division, God help us all. You might as well enshrine Albert Pujols and Tony LaRussa in the Hall Of Fame immediately after game 162.
If the Brewers win, I won't feel as bad. That's a lie, I'll still feel like absolute crap who you will be able to find at the highest ledge around. But at least it's not the Cardinals.
I can't take many more games like this, let alone years like this. I'm taking a break because I have places to go (4:15 p.m.)
FIVE HOURS LATER
Now I am a lot more calm than I was around 4 p.m. when I was willing to take a six hour drive north to Chicago and put an end to the career of Mr. Dempster. However, I'm still more than peeved about the loss.
I don't hate being a Cubs fan. I hate being teased mercilessly by a team that seemingly looks for ways to piss off the most faithful fans in baseball. On to the rest of the blog...
Dempster has a million defenders, heck, I even defended him at one point. But it's hard to defend someone who makes my life miserable every time he takes the mound, whether he saves the game or not.
Had I been at the bar watching the game instead of calmly at my computer waiting for the game to end, I would have gone on a drinking spree that would still be going on.
So now I, like everyone else in Cubdom, am ready to appoint Carlos Marmol to be the new Cubs closer. Here are a list of guys I'd rather have closing out games than Demp:
- Marmol
- Bob Howry
- Kerry Wood
- Mark DeRosa (he was a QB in college, so you know he's got a rocket for an arm)
- Only three inhereted runners have scored when Marmol enters the game
- He's got 77 K's in only 55 innings.
- That's a 12.38 strikeout-per-9 IP ratio
- He's got a 1.45 ERA, best on the team
- He's got a 1.125 WHIP
- He's only allowed 2 home runs all year
- He's held opponents scoreless in all but six appearances
Manager Lou Piniella should install Marmol as his closer, or risk blowing a chance at the NL Central title.
ADDITIONAL READING: I'm not the only one who hates Ryan Dempster!
Monday, September 3, 2007
An Open Letter To Carlos Zambrano
Once in a while I find it necessary to address someone in this public forum. Today that person is Cubs starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano.
Dear Carlos:
After today's pathetic start against the Los Angeles Dodgers, I must call you out. Unfortunately, you can't take out your frustrations on me as you did former battery mate Michael Barrett--but at this point in my life I'd be willing to take the beating if it means that you single handedly bring the Cubs their first World Series title since 1908.
So, since I can't be there, I'd like to offer one of the following to be the sacrificial lamb:
In August, Tribune Co. shelled out $91.5 million to keep you in Chicago 'til at least 2012, in what is most likely their final major expenditure until they are sold (hopefully to Mark Cuban.)
However, since then you are winless and your ERA is Jason Marquis-like (circa 2006) and that is just unacceptable!
In the beginning of the year, you predicted that you would win the Cy Young and that the Cubs would win the World Series. Those were bold predictions and unless you throw perfect games from here on out, your chances at the Cy Young are slim and none (and slim just left the building.)
And even though your Cy Young hopes might be dashed, you can still help carry the Cubs to a World Series title. But first you must carry them to a division title.
You've got all the talent in the world, you just have to use your head a little more often. That means:
At this point Carlos, I'm not sure what else I can tell you to help straighten out. All I can do is make one more final plea from Cubdom.
Carlos, you need to get your f*cking head in the game. You know as well as I do that your heart is in it. We all know your arm is in it. Cubdom wants your f*cking head on straight so you can end this stupid f*cking curse and end 98 years of futility.
There, does this Ozzie Guillen like rant motivate you? It should! I'm sick of getting my heart broken year after year. I'm tired of investing time and money into a ball club that seemingly doesn't give a damn.
I'm sick of hearing about the damn 2005 White Sox and the 2006 Cardinals, the two biggest flukes (statistically) in baseball history. I'm sick of yee-haw creepy Cardinal Nation and their obsession with Pujols. I'm sick of White Sox fans and their "where's your ring?" bullsh*t. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
And it's a damn shame too that I care this damn much about a baseball team, when I could/should be doing homework. Or maybe finding someone or something else that I could expend this time and money and energy and emotion on.
Instead, I've decided to put it all in you because since I was a kid, you have been the only thing I could really depend on. From April through September you're there for me. 1:20 day games, 7:05 night games....the Cubs have always been there whether it be on WGN, Fox Sports Net, Comcast, Fox, ESPN, etc. That's more than I can say for a lot of people.
In closing, I hope you understand how much you (Big Z) it would mean to me (and Cubs fans everywhere) if you just got your head out out of your ass. I know you can do, I've seen you do it.
Just do it, one more time!
Sincerely,
LuDo
Dear Carlos:
After today's pathetic start against the Los Angeles Dodgers, I must call you out. Unfortunately, you can't take out your frustrations on me as you did former battery mate Michael Barrett--but at this point in my life I'd be willing to take the beating if it means that you single handedly bring the Cubs their first World Series title since 1908.
So, since I can't be there, I'd like to offer one of the following to be the sacrificial lamb:
- Will Ohman
- Ronny Cedeno
- Or someone from the Brewers or Cardinals
In August, Tribune Co. shelled out $91.5 million to keep you in Chicago 'til at least 2012, in what is most likely their final major expenditure until they are sold (hopefully to Mark Cuban.)
However, since then you are winless and your ERA is Jason Marquis-like (circa 2006) and that is just unacceptable!
In the beginning of the year, you predicted that you would win the Cy Young and that the Cubs would win the World Series. Those were bold predictions and unless you throw perfect games from here on out, your chances at the Cy Young are slim and none (and slim just left the building.)
And even though your Cy Young hopes might be dashed, you can still help carry the Cubs to a World Series title. But first you must carry them to a division title.
You've got all the talent in the world, you just have to use your head a little more often. That means:
- No more breaking bats over your knee
- No more swinging for the fences with every swing
- No more trying to snare comeback line drives with your bare hand
- No more ignoring stop signs from your third base coach
At this point Carlos, I'm not sure what else I can tell you to help straighten out. All I can do is make one more final plea from Cubdom.
Carlos, you need to get your f*cking head in the game. You know as well as I do that your heart is in it. We all know your arm is in it. Cubdom wants your f*cking head on straight so you can end this stupid f*cking curse and end 98 years of futility.
There, does this Ozzie Guillen like rant motivate you? It should! I'm sick of getting my heart broken year after year. I'm tired of investing time and money into a ball club that seemingly doesn't give a damn.
I'm sick of hearing about the damn 2005 White Sox and the 2006 Cardinals, the two biggest flukes (statistically) in baseball history. I'm sick of yee-haw creepy Cardinal Nation and their obsession with Pujols. I'm sick of White Sox fans and their "where's your ring?" bullsh*t. I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired.
And it's a damn shame too that I care this damn much about a baseball team, when I could/should be doing homework. Or maybe finding someone or something else that I could expend this time and money and energy and emotion on.
Instead, I've decided to put it all in you because since I was a kid, you have been the only thing I could really depend on. From April through September you're there for me. 1:20 day games, 7:05 night games....the Cubs have always been there whether it be on WGN, Fox Sports Net, Comcast, Fox, ESPN, etc. That's more than I can say for a lot of people.
In closing, I hope you understand how much you (Big Z) it would mean to me (and Cubs fans everywhere) if you just got your head out out of your ass. I know you can do, I've seen you do it.
Just do it, one more time!
Sincerely,
LuDo
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Big Series Win Kicks Off September For The Cubs
Down 5-1, it would have been easy to give up on this team. In fact, I did. I was ready to chalk this one in the 'L' column and mark one game off the lead, but then I remembered something I said the other day.
"Every time I have faith in this team, they break my heart. Every time I don't, they surprise me."
The Cubs surprised me today with their 6-5 come from behind win over the Houston Astros.
Rich Hill struggled today, likely still feeling the after-effects of Michigan's devestating loss to Div. 1-AA Appalachian State. He only went five innings giving up five runs while striking out five and walking four.
Though props to "Richie Rich" who clearly sent a message to the Astros by plunking Lance Berkman leading off the fifth inning after Woody Williams hit both Derrek Lee and Jason Kendall.
Even more props to the Cubs bullpen with another stellar outing this afternoon. Michael Wuertz, Kerry Wood, Scott Eyre, Carlos Marmol and Ryan Dempster gave up 0 runs after Hill's departure. Marmol pitched one-third of an inning and picked up the win. Dempster pitched a 1-2-3 top of the ninth earning his 25th save.
D. Lee obviously read my blog the other day and responded with a three hit, three RBI game, including the game-winning home run, a two run shot off Houston reliever Chad Qualls.
For the second time this week, Matt "The Bat" Murton "For Certain" came off the bench and hit a home run. Murton looks like he's the type of hitter who excels in the second-half of the season. At least, that's what these stats show me.
This game wasn't without its fair share of drama.
Home plate umpire Tony Randazzo tossed Cubs third baseman Aramis Ramirez after a questionable called third strike. In Randazzo's defense, he had been calling that pitch a strike all day. However, in the defense of "The Ram", it wasn't in the strike zone any of those times.
Jacque Jones made the play of the day with a diving catch of a sinking liner that saved a run and kept the Cubs deficit at one run. Jones dove head first between Ryan Theriot going back and in front of a sprinting Alfonso Soriano (who was playing no doubles deep in left) to make (arguably) the biggest catch this year.
Not bad for a guy who spent a majority of his career as a corner outfielder. I guess we shouldn't take for granted that he came up in the Twins organization as a center fielder until Torii Hunter came around.
I haven't been JJ's biggest fan, but he's done everything right since the All-Star break. He's stayed out of trouble with the fans. He's played Gold Glove caliber defense. And he's hit to the tune of .321 in the second half. He looks like a completely different player, this one is worth the 3-year $15 million the Cubs are paying him.
Think about it, the Cubs have 27 more games of pressure packed baseball ahead of them. Can they handle 27 games full of this much drama?
Can their fans?
And what about October.
HOW THE CENTRAL WILL BE WON
The NL Central will be decided in part by the bottom half of the division. The Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds.
The Brewers will play the Astros, Pirates and Reds nine times in the final month. They are 7-2 against the Astros and 11-5 against the Pirates, but only 3-6 against the Reds and 4-7 against the Cardinals. The Brewers play a majority of their games at home down the stretch where they are flat out dominant. However, as dominant as they are at home is as futile as they are on the road.
The Cardinals will play the Astros, Pirates and Reds 14 times in the final month. This is where the Cards can make their final push. They are 9-3 against the Reds, 6-4 against the Pirates and 7-5 against the Astros. In fact, the Cards have a winning record against all of the NL Central teams, except the Cubs. They play the Cubs four times in the final month, more on that to come.
Statistically, the Cubs look to have the toughest road to the division title. They have to play three more games against the Astros, who are 6-6 against the Cubs. They have seven games against the Pirates, who are 5-4 against the Cubs this year. The Reds pose the biggest threat to the Cubs hopes. They are 7-5 against the Cubs and host the Cubs in the final three games of the regular season.
Another important series the Cubs have against a non-contender is a three game series against the Florida Marlins (Sept. 25-27.) The Cubs will be looking to avenge a three game sweep at the hands of the Fightin' Fish earlier this season. Again, that was before the "Dugout Slugout" and "Sweet Uncle Lou's" classic tirade.
Hopefully, those games won't matter. But it's the Cubs, so I doubt it.
The most pivotal games the Cubs have remaining are the games against the Cards. Who would have thought the biggest rivalry in the National League would have such big implications down the stretch.
The Cubs have owned the Cardinals since the days that Dusty Baker came to town. The two play five times in a seven day span, including a four game weekend series that includes a Saturday double header.
This could be the biggest set of games these two have played against one another since the five game series in 2003, which marked the beginning of the Cards demise and the Cubs ascent to the 2003 NL Central title.
With the recent addition of Steve Trachsel, manager Lou Piniella will set up the rotation where Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano faces the Cards twice that week. "Big Z" will likely pitch the make-up game on September 10th in Wrigley and one of the games of Saturday's double header.
The Cubs welcome the Los Angeles Dodgers for a four game set. The Dodgers took two out of three from the Cubs earlier in the year. But that was a different Cubs team--and Dodger team for that matter. Trachsel will make his second debut as a Cub this series against L.A.
With 27 games left, I figure the Cubs need to live by one baseball adage: win the majority of your games at home and go .500 on the road. If the Cubs go 8-8 on the road and 6-5 at home it will put them at 84 wins. If the other two teams do the same, the Cubs will win the NL Central title and march on to the playoffs.
Here's hoping that it happens.
"Every time I have faith in this team, they break my heart. Every time I don't, they surprise me."
The Cubs surprised me today with their 6-5 come from behind win over the Houston Astros.
Rich Hill struggled today, likely still feeling the after-effects of Michigan's devestating loss to Div. 1-AA Appalachian State. He only went five innings giving up five runs while striking out five and walking four.
Though props to "Richie Rich" who clearly sent a message to the Astros by plunking Lance Berkman leading off the fifth inning after Woody Williams hit both Derrek Lee and Jason Kendall.
Even more props to the Cubs bullpen with another stellar outing this afternoon. Michael Wuertz, Kerry Wood, Scott Eyre, Carlos Marmol and Ryan Dempster gave up 0 runs after Hill's departure. Marmol pitched one-third of an inning and picked up the win. Dempster pitched a 1-2-3 top of the ninth earning his 25th save.
D. Lee obviously read my blog the other day and responded with a three hit, three RBI game, including the game-winning home run, a two run shot off Houston reliever Chad Qualls.
For the second time this week, Matt "The Bat" Murton "For Certain" came off the bench and hit a home run. Murton looks like he's the type of hitter who excels in the second-half of the season. At least, that's what these stats show me.
This game wasn't without its fair share of drama.
Home plate umpire Tony Randazzo tossed Cubs third baseman Aramis Ramirez after a questionable called third strike. In Randazzo's defense, he had been calling that pitch a strike all day. However, in the defense of "The Ram", it wasn't in the strike zone any of those times.
Jacque Jones made the play of the day with a diving catch of a sinking liner that saved a run and kept the Cubs deficit at one run. Jones dove head first between Ryan Theriot going back and in front of a sprinting Alfonso Soriano (who was playing no doubles deep in left) to make (arguably) the biggest catch this year.
Not bad for a guy who spent a majority of his career as a corner outfielder. I guess we shouldn't take for granted that he came up in the Twins organization as a center fielder until Torii Hunter came around.
I haven't been JJ's biggest fan, but he's done everything right since the All-Star break. He's stayed out of trouble with the fans. He's played Gold Glove caliber defense. And he's hit to the tune of .321 in the second half. He looks like a completely different player, this one is worth the 3-year $15 million the Cubs are paying him.
Think about it, the Cubs have 27 more games of pressure packed baseball ahead of them. Can they handle 27 games full of this much drama?
Can their fans?
And what about October.
HOW THE CENTRAL WILL BE WON
The NL Central will be decided in part by the bottom half of the division. The Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds.
The Brewers will play the Astros, Pirates and Reds nine times in the final month. They are 7-2 against the Astros and 11-5 against the Pirates, but only 3-6 against the Reds and 4-7 against the Cardinals. The Brewers play a majority of their games at home down the stretch where they are flat out dominant. However, as dominant as they are at home is as futile as they are on the road.
The Cardinals will play the Astros, Pirates and Reds 14 times in the final month. This is where the Cards can make their final push. They are 9-3 against the Reds, 6-4 against the Pirates and 7-5 against the Astros. In fact, the Cards have a winning record against all of the NL Central teams, except the Cubs. They play the Cubs four times in the final month, more on that to come.
Statistically, the Cubs look to have the toughest road to the division title. They have to play three more games against the Astros, who are 6-6 against the Cubs. They have seven games against the Pirates, who are 5-4 against the Cubs this year. The Reds pose the biggest threat to the Cubs hopes. They are 7-5 against the Cubs and host the Cubs in the final three games of the regular season.
Another important series the Cubs have against a non-contender is a three game series against the Florida Marlins (Sept. 25-27.) The Cubs will be looking to avenge a three game sweep at the hands of the Fightin' Fish earlier this season. Again, that was before the "Dugout Slugout" and "Sweet Uncle Lou's" classic tirade.
Hopefully, those games won't matter. But it's the Cubs, so I doubt it.
The most pivotal games the Cubs have remaining are the games against the Cards. Who would have thought the biggest rivalry in the National League would have such big implications down the stretch.
The Cubs have owned the Cardinals since the days that Dusty Baker came to town. The two play five times in a seven day span, including a four game weekend series that includes a Saturday double header.
This could be the biggest set of games these two have played against one another since the five game series in 2003, which marked the beginning of the Cards demise and the Cubs ascent to the 2003 NL Central title.
With the recent addition of Steve Trachsel, manager Lou Piniella will set up the rotation where Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano faces the Cards twice that week. "Big Z" will likely pitch the make-up game on September 10th in Wrigley and one of the games of Saturday's double header.
The Cubs welcome the Los Angeles Dodgers for a four game set. The Dodgers took two out of three from the Cubs earlier in the year. But that was a different Cubs team--and Dodger team for that matter. Trachsel will make his second debut as a Cub this series against L.A.
With 27 games left, I figure the Cubs need to live by one baseball adage: win the majority of your games at home and go .500 on the road. If the Cubs go 8-8 on the road and 6-5 at home it will put them at 84 wins. If the other two teams do the same, the Cubs will win the NL Central title and march on to the playoffs.
Here's hoping that it happens.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
The Pennat Race, Playoff Rosters & Setpember Call-Ups
The front page of Cubs.com comes with a very interesting statistic. The Cubs have entered September in 1st place only 15 times since 1900. They went on to win the pennant or division 13 of those times.
THE PENNANT RACE
Lou Piniella and his Chicago Cubs entered September in first place, a game-and-a-half over the Milwaukee Brewers and two games over the St. Louis Cardinals. It's time for them to make it 14 out of 16 and it all begins today.
Jason Marquis heads to the mound today against the Houston Astros and should be the most motivated player on the Cubs. The Cardinals left him off the playoff roster last year and should be in a mindset to remember how the Cards treated him last year and keep them out of the playoffs.
Carlos Zamrbano should be another man on a mission in September. After a winless August in which he finally received his (well desreved) contract extension, Big Z should be primed for a dominating September. If the Big Z from June and July shows up, the Cubs will win the division.
Despite what everyone says the bullpen still worries me, specifically closer Ryan Dempster. Scott Eyre and Bobby Howry are pitching now like they pitched last year, and that could provide a major lift. Carlos Marmol has been absolutely lights out and should be the closer.
Instead, Dempster walks a tight-rope time after time and personally, I would love to avoid any LaTroy Hawkins-like meltdowns down the stretch.
Offensively, it's time for the big boys to show up and play ball. Alfonso Soriano has one hit (a home run) since his return from the DL. Derrek Lee is batting .083 this week and looks like he needs a day off to clear his head. Aramis Ramirez has been the Cubs "Mr. Clutch" all year, but his power numbers are waaay down from what they usually are. Those three really need to step up in September and carry the Cubs down the stretch.
The Cubs acquired ex-Cub Steve Trachsel in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles (where ex-Cubs go to die), and now Lou Piniella will go with a "modified 6-man rotation." I guess that makes sense, with all the make-up games the Cubs are going to have to play. Trachsel is best known for two things:
I like how this roster could shape up for a potential October run.
The Cubs will likely go with a four man rotation with Zambrano, Marquis, Ted Lilly, and either Rich Hill or Sean Marshall. As of now, Hill likely has the edge because he has the hot hand and because he ranks 6th in the NL in strikeouts. And strikeout pitchers are worth their weight in gold in the playoffs.
Marshall will join Eyre as the other lefty in the bullpen. The Cubs have several hard throwing righties in the bullpen including Dempster, Howry, Marmol and Kerry Wood. Trachsel will most likely be used as a long reliever/swing man in case of injury. (11 pitchers)
Around the infield the Cubs will have Ramirez (3B), Ryan Theriot (SS), Mark DeRosa (2B) and Lee (1B). In the outfield the Cubs will have Soriano (LF), a resurgent Jacque Jones (CF) and Cliff Floyd (RF).
Behind the plate the Cubs will go with the hot-hitting Jason Kendall and defensive specialist Henry Blanco.
Unlike most Cubs teams of the past, this squad is versatile. Theriot can play 2B, SS, RF & CF if necessary. Jones can play all three OF spots. Floyd can play both corner OF positions.
The most versatile Cubs is DeRosa. His versatility around the infield and outfield will make up for the Cubs having only one back up infielder (Mike Fontenot.)
1B/OF Daryle Ward will provide left handed power off the bench, while Craig Monroe will provide the same from the right side. Monroe kills left handed pitching and will likely platoon with Floyd in right, though he can play all three OF positions as well. Matt Murton also provides a strong right handed bat against lefties and a keen eye at the plate, with the ability to play both corner OF spots.
Felix Pie is the wild card off the bench. He has struggled in a pinch hitting role, but provides other uses off of the bench. He is the Cubs best defensive outfielder with the most range and strongest, most accurate throwing arm. Pie will also be used in the Dave Roberts Role (circa 2004) as a late inning pinch runner/base stealer.
SEPTEMBER CALL-UPS
With September 1 finally here the rosters can expand to up to 40 players. Most teams don't fill up with 40 men, especially not teams in a playoff hunt. However, after closely paying attention to "Sweet Lou's" coaching style, the Cubs will likely call up some useful minor leaguers including:
"It's Gonna Happen..."
(if they want it to happen!)
THE PENNANT RACE
Lou Piniella and his Chicago Cubs entered September in first place, a game-and-a-half over the Milwaukee Brewers and two games over the St. Louis Cardinals. It's time for them to make it 14 out of 16 and it all begins today.
Jason Marquis heads to the mound today against the Houston Astros and should be the most motivated player on the Cubs. The Cardinals left him off the playoff roster last year and should be in a mindset to remember how the Cards treated him last year and keep them out of the playoffs.
Carlos Zamrbano should be another man on a mission in September. After a winless August in which he finally received his (well desreved) contract extension, Big Z should be primed for a dominating September. If the Big Z from June and July shows up, the Cubs will win the division.
Despite what everyone says the bullpen still worries me, specifically closer Ryan Dempster. Scott Eyre and Bobby Howry are pitching now like they pitched last year, and that could provide a major lift. Carlos Marmol has been absolutely lights out and should be the closer.
Instead, Dempster walks a tight-rope time after time and personally, I would love to avoid any LaTroy Hawkins-like meltdowns down the stretch.
Offensively, it's time for the big boys to show up and play ball. Alfonso Soriano has one hit (a home run) since his return from the DL. Derrek Lee is batting .083 this week and looks like he needs a day off to clear his head. Aramis Ramirez has been the Cubs "Mr. Clutch" all year, but his power numbers are waaay down from what they usually are. Those three really need to step up in September and carry the Cubs down the stretch.
The Cubs acquired ex-Cub Steve Trachsel in a trade with the Baltimore Orioles (where ex-Cubs go to die), and now Lou Piniella will go with a "modified 6-man rotation." I guess that makes sense, with all the make-up games the Cubs are going to have to play. Trachsel is best known for two things:
- Giving up Mark McGwire's 62nd home run
- Winning the one-game playoff in 1998 over Dusty Baker's San Francisco Giants
I like how this roster could shape up for a potential October run.
The Cubs will likely go with a four man rotation with Zambrano, Marquis, Ted Lilly, and either Rich Hill or Sean Marshall. As of now, Hill likely has the edge because he has the hot hand and because he ranks 6th in the NL in strikeouts. And strikeout pitchers are worth their weight in gold in the playoffs.
Marshall will join Eyre as the other lefty in the bullpen. The Cubs have several hard throwing righties in the bullpen including Dempster, Howry, Marmol and Kerry Wood. Trachsel will most likely be used as a long reliever/swing man in case of injury. (11 pitchers)
Around the infield the Cubs will have Ramirez (3B), Ryan Theriot (SS), Mark DeRosa (2B) and Lee (1B). In the outfield the Cubs will have Soriano (LF), a resurgent Jacque Jones (CF) and Cliff Floyd (RF).
Behind the plate the Cubs will go with the hot-hitting Jason Kendall and defensive specialist Henry Blanco.
Unlike most Cubs teams of the past, this squad is versatile. Theriot can play 2B, SS, RF & CF if necessary. Jones can play all three OF spots. Floyd can play both corner OF positions.
The most versatile Cubs is DeRosa. His versatility around the infield and outfield will make up for the Cubs having only one back up infielder (Mike Fontenot.)
1B/OF Daryle Ward will provide left handed power off the bench, while Craig Monroe will provide the same from the right side. Monroe kills left handed pitching and will likely platoon with Floyd in right, though he can play all three OF positions as well. Matt Murton also provides a strong right handed bat against lefties and a keen eye at the plate, with the ability to play both corner OF spots.
Felix Pie is the wild card off the bench. He has struggled in a pinch hitting role, but provides other uses off of the bench. He is the Cubs best defensive outfielder with the most range and strongest, most accurate throwing arm. Pie will also be used in the Dave Roberts Role (circa 2004) as a late inning pinch runner/base stealer.
SEPTEMBER CALL-UPS
With September 1 finally here the rosters can expand to up to 40 players. Most teams don't fill up with 40 men, especially not teams in a playoff hunt. However, after closely paying attention to "Sweet Lou's" coaching style, the Cubs will likely call up some useful minor leaguers including:
- Sean Gallagher who can provide long relief and a spot start if necesary.
- Will Ohman as another left handed reliever in a tight spot.
- Billy Petrick as a middle reliever.
- Carmen Pigmatello another left-handed specialist.
- Geovany Soto and/or Koyie Hill as another catcher. Likely Hill for his defensive prowess.
- Jake Fox is a lefty masher who can play 1B, 3B, C & OF.
- Ronny Cedeno can play both middle infield positions.
- Eric Patterson can play 2B and LF and could provide speed in a pinch.
- There was a rumor that the Cubs could call up rising prospect Jeff Samardzija for a Septmber run. "The Shark" is a hard throwing right hander who in my eyes projects to be a late inning stopper. However at this point there is no truth the rumor.
"It's Gonna Happen..."
(if they want it to happen!)
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