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Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 12:07pm.

Game Chat | Press Pass | BR Preview

SP Rich Harden
 SP
*Wandy Rodriguez

1-1, 1.11, 39 K, 8 BB, 24.1 IP
6-4, 3.61, 83 K, 27 BB, 92.1 IP
LF Alfonso Soriano
 2B #Kaz Matsui
SS Ryan Theriot SS Miguel Tejada
1B
 Derrek Lee RF Hunter Pence
3B
 Aramis Ramirez LF Carlos Lee
CF
 Reed Johnson 1B #Geoff Blum
2B Mark DeRosa 3B Ty Wigginton
RF *Kosuke Fukudome CF *Darin Erstad
C Henry Blanco C Humberto Quintero
P
 *Rich Harden P *Wandy Rodrguez

Apparently the new trend for the Cubs is to get shut out the first game of a series. I can't say I approve. The amazing Rich Harden goes for the Cubs who saw his strikeout rate go down after striking out nine in seven innings in his last outing. He'll oppose Wandy Rodriguez, the Astros ace, who seems to have figured out how to pitch on the road this season - a 4.03 road ERA vs 3.31 home ERA. This compared to his 2007 split of a 6.37 road ERA vs a 2.94 home ERA.

The weather looks a little nicer today and I do hope all of our Chicago readers are safe and sound after yesterday's storm. Sure, the clear skies means there will be baseball, but it also means we won't see a repeat of Elvis sliding on the tarp. Suspiciously, the Astros' "Fat Elvis" - Lance Berkman - is out of the lineup today.

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#1 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by blockhead25 on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 12:28pm.

the 2 shut outs this homestand, the Cubs have come out hacking away in the first couple innings, including Soriano swinging at the first pitch of course. Show patience, good things will happen.

#2 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by CA-Phil on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 12:30pm.

My entry in today's "guess the typo" contest -- Hank White is Catching...

#4 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 12:49pm.

it's not so much a typo, more of an oversight...I cut and paste the last game thread and then forget to change the positions if anyone got moved around.

 

 

#5 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by CA-Phil on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:10pm.

just playing, really appreciate the site and the updates as you know...

#3 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by CA-Phil on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 12:32pm.

6 pitches 3 up 3 down -- Marshall might only have to go 2 today!

#6 Erstad's "great" catch

Submitted by navigator on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:29pm.

If you watch the highlight video, he makes a totally unnecessary jump.

Quick adjustment, nice catch but more goofy than great.

#7 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by GoBobbyGo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:29pm.

I realize this is completely off topic (and that since the baby I never post; in fact I had to register for the first time), but that Miller Lite commercial I saw between innings - was that at Moody's?

#8 Rich Harden gave up a runs?

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:48pm.
unpossible...

#10 Re: Rich Harden gave up a runs?

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:51pm.
and ONLY 8 K's through 5. Total slacker.

#9 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:50pm.

Harden's performing even better than Sutcliffe's first half - season with the Cubs, if memory serves. Lots of whiffs on that change.

#11 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 1:58pm.

Harden's been getting hit hard the last couple innings.

#12 Okay now Rich,

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:01pm.
knock it off...

#13 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob Richardson on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:04pm.

Harden seems to give up a lot of home runs.

__________________________

That's great in practice, but how about in theory?

#15 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:08pm.

maybe today, but career-wise he had a .70 HR/9 rate which is borderline ridiculous.

It was 0.71 for the season entering today. Anything under one is pretty fantastic...

 

#17 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob Richardson on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:17pm.

I know it is nothing, but I just don't like the trend of 5 hrs in 5 starts with the Cubs.

__________________________

That's great in practice, but how about in theory?

#14 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Bigz on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:06pm.

what is going on with Harden?
only got the live box score here

#16 Oh, Bob Howry...

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:09pm.
I question this strategy of trying to lose.

#18 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:26pm.

In order to make the playoffs and make a deep run, I think Bob Howry has to get on track. That's the only possible explanation for Lou leaving him in today, and let's just hope it doesn't backfire.

--edit--

Backfired. Fucking Carlos Lee.

#19 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by WISCGRAD on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:27pm.

Homerun Howry Strikes Again!!

#20 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by jacos on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:28pm.

Can Howry jump in the same car with Eyre?

__________________________

I hate to advocate drugs, alcohol, violence, or insanity to anyone, but they've always worked for me- hst

#21 is there any room

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:28pm.

on the bus with Eyre for Howry?I like Lou for the most part, but he's gotta give up on Howry right now...he should have about 1 month ago.And F U Carlos "Cub Killer" Lee...

#22 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Tito on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:29pm.

Looks like the wrong guy got DFA'd. OK, maybe not, but come on Howry, knock it off...

__________________________

Voting for non-Americans since 2008.

#23 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob Richardson on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:29pm.

Why oh why pitch to Lee with first base open.

__________________________

That's great in practice, but how about in theory?

#24 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:30pm.
that is a fantastic question....

#25 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by navigator on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:31pm.

just an ugly ugly game

#26 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:32pm.

6-1 lead, Harden on the mound....

No such thing as a sure thing (except that bringing Bob Howry in to protect a one-run lead is a recipe for disaster).

#27 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:33pm.

Not being able to scratch a run across when you have first and third with no outs is probably the bigger problem than Bob Howry's batting practice fast balls.

How about a hit and run with Theriot on first?

#28 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by navigator on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:36pm.

2nd and third, nobody out, and we have a chance to score 'cause the middle of the order isn't coming up

#29 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Tito on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:42pm.

The 4-5-6 hitters have driven in five runs today. Just FYI.

__________________________

Voting for non-Americans since 2008.

#30 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by vorare on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:42pm.

I just don't get how Lou can count on Howry in any remotely important situation. The dude's been a mess the entire season.

#31 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Tito on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:43pm.

Howry had a great May; the rest = poop

__________________________

Voting for non-Americans since 2008.

#32 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:45pm.

I think we all agree that Howry's toast for the remainder of the season, or at least should be, after numerous chances. How about a Guzman call - up, maybe before 9/1?

#33 Boom goes the dynamite!!!

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:50pm.

SORIANO!!!!

that was pretty fucking ninja!!! 

#34 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:50pm.

FONZIE! On a 1 - 2 pitch - awesome.

#35 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob Richardson on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 2:51pm.

I think I have been convinced that a power hitter in the lead off spot is a good thing.

__________________________

That's great in practice, but how about in theory?

#39 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:01pm.

I think the only change I would make to the lineup at this point would be to either move DLee to the 5 or 6 spot. Putting him after on-base-machine-but-only-singles-or-walks Theriot is just a recipe for a double play.

#42 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:05pm.

Looks like DLee liked the day off -- 4 hits.

Who would go in the #3 spot if you move Lee? K-Fuk is a slap-hitting .275 hitter with a good OBP -- not a #3 guy.

#56 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:23pm.

I'd put Aramis in the 3 hole, Edmonds or Soto in the 4 hole, and Lee in the 5-6 hole. Maybe even just swap Lee and Aramis.

The only problem I have with Lee in the 3 hole is that his power has been fairly limited the last couple years, and with Theriot getting on all the time in front of him (but only to first base), there are WAY too many opportunites to hit into double plays (opportunities that he rarely lets pass by these days).

I think by now we all realize Lee's 2005 was an aberration that won't be repeated, and his 20-25 HRs just aren't enough for the 3 spot.

#57 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:30pm.

Well... lineup simulators have found that you should put your 4th or 5th best hitter in the 3 slot.

Your best hitters should be in the 2 and 4 slot, and then depending on the skill sets the next three should be in the 1, 5, and 3 slots. I am not sure that I completely buy it yet... but the numbers back it up.

I don't mind Lee hitting 3rd at all. No question he has been in an extended slump, but it isn't like there are a lot of good options to replace Lee in the 3 slot. ARam hits into his share of double plays also...

Further - Lee's double play propensity this year doesn't align with his stats for his career, so there is, in reality, no reason to expect him to continue to hit into double plays. And... FWIW.. Lee's GB% is only slightly higher this year (45%) than the previous two years (42%, 43%), so it would appear that there is a lot of luck involved.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#59 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by 10man on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:42pm.

it's not polite to be talking about a guy being in a slump when he's getting 4 hits in a game. just sayin.

__________________________

That's Manila with an "L"

#61 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:00pm.

I don't know what the lineup simulators say when your 4th or 5th best hitter hits a grounder to short every other AB.

I just looked at his spray chart on MLB.com: http://mlb.mlb.com/stats/individual_player_hitting...

Unfortunately it only lets you look at one ballpark at a time, but the chart of his ground-outs has a huge red splotch over the shortstop. I don't know if it's because he's getting jammed on inside fast balls or he's not going the other way with outside pitches. Probably a bit of both.

It's hard to complain too much since the team's in first place and he had four hits today, but it's just disgusting how many times Theriot takes a walk or gets a seeing eye single, only to be doubled up on another DLee grounder to short.

There are a few solutions:
1) Put someone in front of him with a higher slugging percentage than Theriot so there's not always someone standing on first (e.g. swap Sori and Theriot).
2) Hit-and-run more often
3) Start making Lee bunt (obviously not going to happen)
4) Drop Lee in the order

The only one I see legitimately happening is number 2.

#66 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:30pm.

Well... again, I think that the large number of double plays is more a matter of luck than anything else.

I would also guess, without looking into it, that most RH hitters have the majority of their ground balls going to or near the shortstop. A quick look at ARam's shows something pretty similar (though with less total ground balls).

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#68 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 7:02pm.

It's also hard to hit into a lot of DPs when Neifi, Corey and/or Macias are hitting in front of you...

#70 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 7:54pm.

Without looking into every player's spray charts, I can't really prove that DLee hits more grounders to short than other players do. But anecdotally, it seems to me that he hits way more grounders to short than anyone else (at least on the Cubs).

I'd even be willing to bet he's at or near the lead in Fielder's Choice 6-4's (the only difference between that and a double play being there were already 2 outs).

If anyone knows how to find this information, I'm a bit curious. Otherwise, we'll just have to leave it up to my perceived observations versus someone else's.

#79 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by The Real Neal on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 1:30am.

BP keeps track of double plays per opportunity:

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/statistics/sorta...

If staying out of double plays is your main concern for the #3 hitter, than Soto or Fukudome should be your man.

Lee isn't even the worst one on the team. Hitting Lee 5th, with AramRam's lack of speed and new found walking tendencies probably isn't a great plan.

__________________________

Livin' just a little, laughin' just a little, ain't easy.

#89 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Raisin101 on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 9:37am.

I believe Ryan Theriot leads the team in % of double plays in situations where double plays are possible. Of course, with Lee batting third, he gets way more opportunities for DPs.

With the way guys have been getting on base this season compared to past seasons, there are bound to be far more double plays (more opportunities for them).

#93 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by VirginiaPhil on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 10:59am.

For better or worse, Lee has turned himself into an opposite-field hitter, someone who is happy, early in the count, to get a slap single to right. It's not quite accurate to say that he has been in a slump. In June, when he hit 2 home runs, he batted .283. In July (2 more home runs) he hit .292. It's not even a power slump, since he hits the ball farther to straightaway center than Soriano hits it to left. But Lee's long balls don't go out (except occasionally over the 368 sign).

His inside-out swing probably lends itself to grounders to the left side on inside pitches.

I'm not criticizing him, it's just who he is and what he wants to be. Some guys just like to spend a little more time looking at a pitch.

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#94 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 11:11am.

Not a slump? You do know that there is more to baseball than batting average, right?

April: .364/.437/.682 OPS: 1.118
May: .234/.269/.411 OPS: .681
June: .283/.371/.404 OPS: .775
July: .292/.339/.442 OPS: .781

May - July: .268/.324/.420 OPS: .744

His career line: .282/.367/.500 OPS: .867

I have no idea how you can say a SLUG of .420 is not a power slump for Lee. And his OPS over the last 3 months is 123 points lower than his career OPS.

Not a slump?

Sure... I guess there is a chance that he has just become a .744 OPS hitter, but I doubt it.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#95 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 11:20am.

At what point does it stop being a slump and start being what he is? 3 months is half the season.

#96 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 11:24am.

Well... being that the three months don't really align with the rest of his career numbers, it would appear to be a combination of bad luck and a prolonged slump.

While it is a half of a season, it is still a relatively small sample size, and one that is MUCH less predictive of the level of player that he is than the much greater number of at-bats over his career.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#99 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Timmer on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 12:36pm.

"the three months don't really align"

Fair enough, but he turns 33 in just a few weeks, so maybe what we're seeing is the beginning of the inevitable downturn in his numbers.

#100 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 12:41pm.

That is possible... but I don't think that we can make that assumption at this point.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#97 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 11:36am.

Cubs f/x is looking at whether or not Lee is seeing, and swinging at, more outside pitches.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#36 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Jace on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:00pm.

Wow... K Wood in the game, throwing 95 mph...

#37 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:00pm.

As I posted in the other thread --

D. Ward is very good at not swinging the bat while he is being intentionally walked.

Other than that....

#38 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Jace on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:01pm.

Yeah, I really think that Eyre should have stayed, and Howry should have gone....

#40 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Doug Dascenzo on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:03pm.

I'm really surprised they couldn't put Eyre on the DL for a few weeks until the rosters expand. Just seeing his interview and how broken up he was about it makes me feel like there had to be a way to keep him on the team somehow.

#44 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:08pm.

GMs and managers have to make tough calls -- if they kept every guy on the team who sucked but cried, it would be, well, the 2005-06 Cubs.

It did seem like Eyre fell out of favor very quckly.

#65 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Mitterwald on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:22pm.

I never understood why Glendon Rusch was mocked mercilessly for his weight problem, but very few people ripped Eyre for being at least 20 pounds overweight.

#41 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:04pm.

Had a few balls hit hard off him, but nice first outing back for Woody.

#43 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:07pm.

Neither are very good pitchers right now, but Lou really disliked Eyre as the season progressed. Lou's reaction in coming out to the mound to get Eyre in his last appearance spoke volumes - he looked absolutely disgusted with him.

#45 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Raisin101 on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:11pm.

Man, I really don't like Howry in the game if it's close. I know Lou likes him because he doesn't walk people, but he's still horrid.

#46 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:11pm.

Given all the hype and all the $$, and the fast start, it is remarkable how quickly Fukudome has become an afterthought in the lineup.

His K's seem to have accelerated dramatically -- lots of swings and misses on sliders down and in (didn't see today's K). Hopefully, he can adjust.

#47 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Rob G. on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:14pm.

(overheard in Cubs locker room)

Kosuke: advanced scouting is a beetch...

 

#51 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by big_lowitzki on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:26pm.

He has been better lately.

Though he still is, and probably will continue, really struggling against LHP.

__________________________

Antagonizing TCR posters with my my "assinine" "socialist drivel" and my signatures since 2003.

#48 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by mattralph on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:20pm.

And Howry steals a win from Harden. That just isn't right. Maybe it can be Harden's parting gift for Homerun Howry.

#50 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:26pm.

Gaudin stole one from Z on Sunday as well, so the former A's are even.

Harden was due for a tough outing -- that Bob-Gibson-eque ERA wasn't sustainable. Nice that the Cubs could get a win anyway.

Remember the April/May posts that the Cubs were a better team without Soriano? Only true when everyone else on the team is hitting over .300, like they were back then.

#53 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by johann on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:55pm.

Yet another example of why wins/losses are a stupid way to judge a pitcher.

#55 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Chad on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:15pm.

Judging any pitcher by only one stat is very stupid.

__________________________

"I will ruin this house with my anger!" - Master Shake

#64 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by blockhead25 on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:19pm.

I think wins is a useful stat for a starter (although not close to the most important), but I think it's entirely meaningless for a reliever. In fact, I don't think I ever even look at the won/loss record for relievers.

#49 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by billybucks on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:20pm.

Read the scoreboard and weep, Brewers and Cards.

#52 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Chad on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:34pm.

Now can see what a freaking weapon we have when Soriano bats 1st? So deadly late in a game. After a pinch hitter comes up, Soriano does. that is just huge.

__________________________

"I will ruin this house with my anger!" - Master Shake

#54 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by dcf on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 3:58pm.

Soriano is maddening, but when he's hot, he puts the offense on a whole 'nother level. His OPS seems to grossly underestimate his value.

#58 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Jeff_Pico on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:40pm.

Weird game today. You think 6-1 with Harden on the mound things are pretty safe. Lou keeps trying and trying to give Howry a confidence booster but so far its backfired just about every time. Soriano was HUGE though, when that guy is healthy and on this team is pretty damn good.

#60 Howry needs a bus ticket to anywhere else

Submitted by 10man on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 4:47pm.

You think maybe Howry is Lou's golfing buddy? No other reason to explain why he keeps getting the call when the game is on the line.

__________________________

That's Manila with an "L"

#72 Re: Howry needs a bus ticket to anywhere else

Submitted by Mitterwald on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 8:35pm.

Gaudin pitched two innings last night, Samardzija threw 40 pitches on Sunday, Cotts has been worked VERY hard of late, and Lou goes out of his way to make sure Wood doesn't enter a game in the middle of an inning.

So realistically, Lou's only options were Marshall or Howry. And I don't think Lou could have lived with himself if a righty slugger like Carlos Lee took a soft-tossing lefty like Marshall deep. So he put his chips on Howry, especially knowing that Howry rarely walks anybody.

#62 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dr. aaron b on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:00pm.

Lou just needs to back off of Howry. Similar to the "dead arm" period that Marmol and Wuertz both went through earlier this summer, from overuse. Maybe Howry would benefit from a little "Wade Miller back spasms" DL trip for a couple or 15 days. Then if he still has trouble. You still have 10 days to try and make a waiver trade. Also it gives you 2 weeks to take a look at an Angel Guzman down the stretch. I personally think Angel will make a difference down the stretch.

__________________________

Rooting for Laundry since 1987

#63 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Chad on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 5:04pm.

If anyone is interested I'll be hanging out in the parachat for the cinnci brewer game.

__________________________

"I will ruin this house with my anger!" - Master Shake

#67 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Raisin101 on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 6:05pm.

Aussie Ryan Searle (who's mom commented on here a few times last year) was promoted from Mesa to Boise and will make his Hawks debut today.

#69 Yet another Cubs 1st round pick going to the Bigs

Submitted by Eric S on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 7:43pm.

Former Cub 1st round (and 3rd overall) pick Luis Montanez called up by the Orioles today replace injured OF Adam Jones.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/playe...

Somebody else put this possibility (Montanez getting called up) on the board a few days ago - well done!

#71 Re: Yet another Cubs 1st round pick going to the Bigs

Submitted by crunch on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 8:25pm.

woohoo! the kid gets the mlb pension and health plan for life.

this is quite seriously probably the best thing to happen in his professional life since signing a contract to begin with.

and wow...orioles...THAT desperate? good luck.

#75 Re: Yet another Cubs 1st round pick going to the Bigs

Submitted by tem99 on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 9:50pm.

Good for him. Hope he makes the best of it.

That said, my guess is that he probably has to accrue a certain amount of mlb time before he qualifies for the pension and other benefits.

#73 Carpenter BAAAAACK??

Submitted by The E-Man on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 8:53pm.

Shit. Carpenter. 5IP, 0 runs. 0.00 ERA Fuck You!

So it will be Demp and Carpenter on Sunday night, I guess.

Maybe his arm will fall off too - like Mulder.

__________________________

Disappointed by "Cubbery" since 1966

#74 Re: Carpenter BAAAAACK??

Submitted by nohit on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 9:01pm.

How about like Dravecky?

/One ticket to hell, please. First class.
//I don't really wish that on anyone. Really.

__________________________

Equal Opportunity Offender

#76 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by rokfish on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 10:01pm.

it is about time marshall pitches hopefully
tomorrow.

i would also be all for a eyre to the whitesox trade

#77 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by crunch on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 10:27pm.

it was weird how fast he fell apart.

for as ugly as his numbers are...and that whole not playing til may thing...all his "ugly" came in his last few outtings before another trip to the DL. he came off the DL...one more bad outting...gone.

he actually looked great for almost a month when he got around to starting his season.

sucks...

#81 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by The Real Neal on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 2:37am.

"Eyre was 2-0 with a 7.15 ERA in 19 appearances this season and also had two stints on the disabled list. He set a franchise record with 33 straight scoreless appearances from August 2007 through June 2008."

Too bad Pinhead wasn't around to see that performance...

__________________________

Livin' just a little, laughin' just a little, ain't easy.

#78 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by nohit on Tue, 08/05/2008 - 10:36pm.

Some unofficial word regarding what went down between Prince & Parra:

http://blogs.jsonline.com/brewers/archive/2008/08/...

__________________________

Equal Opportunity Offender

#80 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by The Real Neal on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 1:43am.

Seems like the Brewers fans were in agreement that Fielder should have been benched for a day or two. Instead he 'apologized', though I don't see to whom, and then started and hit a home run.

Starting to seem like we may have another Milton Bradley/Joey Belle in the makings. Now that they've traded LaPorta they don't seem to have an in house replacement for him, if they want to ship his problems elsewhere.

__________________________

Livin' just a little, laughin' just a little, ain't easy.

#82 Harden says, Lou says, What do you say?

Submitted by navigator on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 6:43am.

Harden says he asked Lou to take him out of the game because his legs were tired. Felt like lead. First time as a Cub he complained about being tired.

Lou says he may scale back Howry's appearances now that Wood is back.

I says Billy Howry is looking a lot like he's the new Stevie Ire.

Meanwhile, Jon Lieber had less than stellar mixed results last night in a start for Peoria.
http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stat...

#83 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 7:47am.

"...the kid gets the mlb pension and health plan for life."

Does he really need this, after he signed his big - money contract not that long ago? Seems like the kid already won big after that development - shades of Bobby Brownlie.

"Carpenter. 5IP, 0 runs. 0.00 ERA Fuck You!"

Someone told me that I was nuts to keep insisting that his return could be an effective one, given some time. I hope I'm clearly wrong about that, but let's hope we can put this club in the rear - view mirror after this weekend.

#84 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by rokfish on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 7:53am.

thats it lets make sure harden doesnt have to
run the bases next start .
even though i must say the bunt he got a hit on was nice
maybe he can give some tips to theriot.

#85 Lunch Plans

Submitted by billybucks on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 7:54am.

Brewers vs. Reds, 11:35 am (Chicago time) today.

Homer Bailey for the Reds -- Opp. BA this year = .381.

Yikes.

#86 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Dmac on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 7:57am.

Perhaps this is what's really bothering Fielder these days:

http://www.theonion.com/content/news/c_c_sabathia_...

#98 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Chad on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 11:51am.

very old

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"I will ruin this house with my anger!" - Master Shake

#87 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by nohit on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 9:19am.

I'm surprised Chunky soup hasn't done a CC/Prince commercial yet.

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Equal Opportunity Offender

#88 Put in me, coach....

Submitted by billybucks on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 9:36am.

Any word on Pie?

Next year's OF -- corners are set, and I assume they will want to keep Reed as the 4th OF, but who is the main CF?

Maybe they should tell Edmonds to buy a 1B mitt -- he can become the new Ward next year (late inning LH bat), but could actually play in the field, and could be an emergency backup if no other CF emerges?

#90 Ryan Theriot--BEEFCAKE

Submitted by Indiana JJ on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 9:54am.

Hee Hee
http://cbs3.com/slideshows/Female.Male.Athletes.20...

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I have nine different pitches, all of which are awesome.

#91 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by rokfish on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 10:00am.

indiana jji think i am moreinterstedin j.finch
she is definatly the better pitcher in her marriage

#92 Re: Game 114 Thread / Astros @ Cubs (2 of 3)

Submitted by Ryno on Wed, 08/06/2008 - 10:49am.

She prefers bigger balls, though. *snicker*

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