Cub Notes

Breaking: The Cubs have sign B.J. Ryan to a minor league deal. He will work out in Arizona before reporting to Triple A Iowa.

I think if Ryan can become what he was last year and two years ago we have a real steal here. Now expect Sean Marshall to return to the starting rotation till Dempster returns from the non-displaced broken big toe.

In other News:

• The Cubs are not interested in Halladay, with his contract to pricey and would demand a lot.
  
• To catch-up on AAA news, the second half, and MLBN Cubs grades visit Brandon's Blog.

Tonight's lineup:

Johnson - CF
Theriot - SS
Bradley - RF
Lee - 1B
Ramirez - 3B
Soriano - LF
Baker - 2B
Hill - C
Harden - P

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Possible Cubs Targets

Lets take a look into what the Cubs can get to solidify their bullpen and at second base for the games down the stretch. But first lets discuss the situation, the Cubs have about 3 Million dollars to spend according to Cubs officials. The Cubs also have a few untouchables in Josh Vitters (unless a super star player is coming this way) and Jay Jackson, with a few other minor leaguers on the keep list. So what do the Cubs have to offer? What do the Cubs want? All these questions will be answered with possible trade proposals.

Catchers:

Gregg Zaun- A solid defender, he's got some pop, and a career OBP of .344, and he's continuing that pace this year as well. But hes priced at 1.5 million dollars, I'd like the Cubs to take the entire salary only if we give up less. The O's need corner infield help with that being a glaring hole in there system, with Aubrey Huff and Melvin Mora leaving at seasons end.

Cubs get: Gregg Zaun Cash considerations (750K), and Tyler Henson
Orioles get: Micah Hoffpauir and maybe a low prospect

Yes I know Hoffpauir means a lot to the Cubs, but with Jake Fox here who could play 1B, 3B, C, LF, RF (not particularly great, but solid defense around him.)

Second baseman:

Freddy Sanchez- Hes great at 2B, and can bat leadoff. He's also signed through next year and so far is batting .316 with 6HRs and 34 RBIs. Why not go after him even with his high price tag? The Pirates need help at SP, SS, and 2B so lets explore a deal.

Cubs get: Freddy Sanchez and pirates pay 3.25 million dollars (possible deal-breaker)
Pirates get: Ryan Flaherty, Kevin hart, and either Mike Fontenot/Andres Blanco/Jeff Baker

Felipe Lopez: Not a big fan, nor do I think hes an upgrade. But has a track record, and could bat leadoff. Strikes out a ton (averages 128 strikeouts per 600 AB.)

Cubs get: Felipe Lopez
Dbacks get: Mike Fontenot and grade C/C- prospect (a type of player who is just a body)

Relievers:

B.J. Ryan- All you gotta do is claim him and hope your the worse team to claim him.
Matt Herges- The same as B.J.

If the Cubs do deal Rich Harden to a contender, watch out for a big trade, he makes 7 million dollars this year. If Rich is traded (he'd bring back a B prospect) then the Cubs could get Sanchez more easily.

I think Rich is gonna be OK, he's not used to pitching so consistently, but when hes on WOW. The only problem that rich has is the homerun ball, in 14 starts hes given up at least 1 bomb in 12 of those starts.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Notes

Bradley Comments:

"Don't read the newspapers, don't watch TV, just play," he said. "We've got everything we need right here. If we stay together in here, cut out all the outside [stuff], we'll be fine. There's way too much hoopla, there's way too much talk, there's way too much speculation.

"We're a team -- 25 guys going out there every day, grinding. You play 162 games for a reason. It doesn't matter where you're at right now. The Cardinals haven't won jack."

Hitting coach Von Joshua has been working with Bradley, who finished the first half at .243, well off his .321 pace last season with the Rangers.

"I understand what I'm doing wrong," Bradley said. "I looked at my tape from last year. I feel it now. So when I tell you I'm back, I'm back. You can mark it down. I'll be hitting for the rest of the year. I'm back."

Lou ends the first half with:

"I feel we're in good position to win this division," Piniella said. "Two things -- stay healthy, get healthy and swing the bats. That's it. We do those two things, we can win the second half. Those are two big 'ifs,' though."

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Interested in B.J. Ryan

The Cubs have shown great interest in the recently released BJ Ryan, who officially cleared waivers today. If the Cubs claim him (while having the "worst" record between teams that claim him) should get him for the Major League minimum.

If the Cubs get him, look for them to send him to AAA to sharpen up. Ryan has shown improvement, during June Ryan had a 1.04 ERA.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Jake Fox recalled, Sammy Sosa

The Cubs called up Jake Fox, you may know that a player who is sent down has to wait 10 days before being called up, BUT the Cubs placed Jason Waddell on the DL.

Also the New York Times in reporting that Sammy Sosa failed a drug test in 2003, this will almost certainly deny Sosa into the Hall if this report comes out to be true.

UPDATE: Bruce Levine is reporting that it is at least three to four weeks before Aramis Ramirez returns.

I will keep you posted.
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Gerald Perry Fired

UPDATE: 12:02 Gerald Perry Fired - Von Joshua Promoted to Cubs Hitting Coach. Gerald was pulled off the field during Cubs batting practice by GM Jim Hendry and fired.

Von Joshua, hitting coach for the Iowa Cubs, will be promoted from Triple-A on Monday and will be in uniform for the opener of the White Sox series on Tuesday.


Ryan Freel will begin a rehab assignment on Monday with the I-Cubs and is expected to rejoin the Cubs soon.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Pedro Martinez in Cubbie Blue

According to Nick Cafardo; Sources close to Pedro Martinez indicated that the Chicago Cubs have watched Martinez throw, as well as the Rays. Both teams are also beginning to at least explore how much money it would take to add Martinez to their rosters.

There also saying Martinez's fastball has tipped off at 94 MPH. WOW, that's really encouraging if we could add him to the pen.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs 6/11 notes, Draft

Tonight's lineup:

Soriano - LF
Theriot - SS
Bradley - RF
Lee - 1B
Johnson - CF
Soto - C
Scales - 3B
Miles - 2B
Zambrano - P

31		Jackson, Brett	UC Berkeley	CF	L/R	6'02"	210	1988-08-02	JR
Comments: It's not a great Draft class for college bats, particularly in the outfield, so one with the athleticism Jackson has is bound to be noticed. He runs well on both sides of the ball, has a decent approach at the plate and plays a good center field right now. Some may see him as a tweener who isn't a leadoff hitter or a No. 3 type. If he gets bigger he will have to move to a corner, where how much power he actually has becomes a bigger question. He's got more value if he can stay in center, and the team that takes him may be hoping he can stay put. 79 LeMahieu, David Louisiana St U IF R/R 6'04" 196 1988-07-13 Comments: As a shortstop from a major college program, LeMahieu is going to get plenty of looks. Like most LSU products, he plays the game the right way and makes the most of his average tools. He's got a solid approach at the plate, but doesn't have a ton of raw power. That wouldn't matter, except for the fact he might have to move to third as he matures. Still, as a real "baseball player" who's excelled in a major program, he's bound to be drafted well. 109 Kirk, Austin Owasso HS (OK) LHP L/L 6'01" 1990-05-22 HS 140 Rusin, Christopher U Kentucky LHP L/L 6'02" 190 1986-10-22 SR 170 Darvill, Wesley Brookswood SS SS L/R 6'02" 1991-09-10 HS 200 Raley, Brooks Texas A&M U LHP L/L 6'03" 180 1988-06-29 SO 230 Springfield, Blair MacArthur HS (IL) IF R/R 5'11" 1991-02-18 HS 260 Whitenack, Robert SUNY Old Westbury RHP R/R 6'05" 185 1988-11-20 JR 290 Jones, Richard The Citadel C L/R 6'00" 210 1988-01-31 JR 320 Thomas, Joseph Edward Waters Col 3B R/R 6'04" 225 1988-07-02 JR 350 Mincone, John Suffolk CC West LHP L/L 6'01" 215 1989-07-23 J2 380 Davis, Burundi Howard Col OF R/R 6'00" 185 1989-01-02 J2 410 Taylor, Chad Jefferson HS (FL) SS R/R 6'01" 175 1990-08-29 HS 440 Keefe, Daniel U Tampa RHP R/R 6'04" 185 1987-08-15 SR 470 Shields, Bryan Auburn U Montgomery CF R/R 6'04" 190 1987-08-03 SR 500 Walker, Keenyn Judge Memorial Catholic HS (UT) CF S/R 6'02" 1990-08-12 HS 530 Dail, Barrett Mt Olive Col RHP R/R 6'02" 205 1987-09-30 JR 560 Williams, Matthew Duke U C R/R 5'11" 220 1987-02-23 SR 590 Burruel, Sergio Trevor G Browne HS (AZ) C L/R 5'11" 1991-07-22 HS 620 Erickson, Eric U Miami LHP R/L 6'00" 174 1988-02-17 JR 650 Rohan, Greg Kent St U 1B R/R 6'00" 205 1986-05-11 5S 680 Fitzgerald, Derrick Dyersburg State CC 2B R/R 5'11" 195 1988-12-20 J1 710 Pruitt, Jeffrey Cal St Northridge CF R/R 6'05" 220 1988-01-21 JR 740 Esquivel, Gerardo De La Salle Institute (IL) RHP R/R 6'01" 170 1991-04-28 HS 770 Bour, Justin George Mason U 1B L/R 6'04" 250 1988-05-28 JR 800 Grife, Steven Mercyhurst Col RHP R/R 6'00" 177 1986-11-04 SR 830 Martin, Corey Western Carolina U RHP R/R 6'03" 195 1987-05-01 SR 860 Petraitis, Jordan Miami U 3B R/R 6'03" 225 1986-08-30 SR 890 Clubb, Timothy Missouri St U RHP R/R 6'02" 195 1986-09-04 SR 920 Sheppard, Daniel Downers Grove North HS (IL) C R/R 6'00" 180 1991-02-25 HS

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Aaron Miles activated....Jake Fox?

After the Cubs win Tuesday night the Cubs activated Aaron Miles and optioned Jake Fox back to Triple A Iowa. Fox who was 5-12, might of been the wrong choice, with infielders Scales and Blanco who could of either been sent down to keep Fox up. But on the other hand Fox's trade value was going down back as soon as he goes to AAA it should jump up again.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

June 7th Line-up and Notes

Today's lineup:

Soriano - LF
Theriot - SS
Fukudome - RF
Lee - 1B
Fontenot - 3B
Johnson - CF
Hill - C
Blanco - 2B
Wells - P

It looks like Soriano will get a much needed day off, against a pitcher that he has owned.

Carlos Zambrano has this to say about his future endeavors:

"After this contract, I'm done," said Zambrano, who is signed through 2012 with a vesting option for 2013. "I'm serious. I don't want to play. I want to help this team, I want to do everything possible to win with this team, but after five years or four years, or whatever I have left on my contract, I just don't want to play.

"I want to stay home and see my daughters grow up and hang out with my family more," he said. "Do you know how many Mother's Days I spend with my mother? Do you know how many things I've lost in my life?

"It's good to be here, it's good to play baseball -- don't get me wrong," Zambrano said. "But five years, four years, whatever I have left in my contract, I will retire. That's it."

We'll see what happens down the line, im sure his mind will change within the next 4 to 5 years.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Aramis Ramirez....Notes

According to the Chicago Tribune Aramis Ramirez will resume baseball activities this weekend in Cincinnati, which is about a week earlier the previously reported. The Cubs need him back desperately, but they need to be careful with him, since he's the best third basemen in the league apart from David Wright who is actually having an OK season with only 3 homeruns, but a .326BA.

NOTES:

• The Cubs and Braves had to postpone the rubber game, but it's been rescheduled for June 22.
• Rich Harden threw a bullpen session on Thursday, and felt no pain in his back, and is slated to pitch for the Iowa Cubs on Sunday in a rehab start. The Cubs are expecting to have Harden back in time to start the opener against the Minnesota Twins at Wrigley on Friday, June 12.
• Expect Big Z to start Friday in Cincinnati, while going for a milestone 100 wins.
• Milton Bradley will not need a stint on the DL, after feeling much better on Thursday.
  
• Lou gave Geo a "mental break" in Atlanta.
  

I think the Cubs need to get a power arm in the bullpen, IF we don't see the Cubs trade for one this summer, expect Shark Boy to be back in the bullpen. Which he could stay for awhile.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

June 2nd pitching match-up...Notes

Randy Wells RHP (0-2, 1.80) will battle against Kenshin Kawakami, RHP (3-6, 4.73)

Cubs: This was supposed to be Carlos Zambrano's start, but he's serving a six-game suspension for his antics in last Wednesday's game against the Pirates. Instead, Wells will try for his first win. The rookie right-hander has thrown three straight quality starts, but has yet to get a "W." In his last outing Thursday against the Dodgers, he gave up two runs on eight hits over seven innings and struck out seven. He threw 111 pitches, 70 for strikes. That's a good ratio.

Braves: Looking to improve his control, Kawakami has recently focused on attacking the strike zone early in the count. This approach worked on May 22, when he threw first-pitch strikes to 22 of the 27 batters he faced and held the Blue Jays scoreless over eight innings. But with an average fastball that is occasionally flat, this approach could also prove costly against an aggressive lineup. The 33-year-old right-hander struggled with his control on Wednesday, when he issued four walks and allowed nine hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Giants.

Courtesy of Cubs.com

Notes:

• Third baseman Chipper Jones continues to play with a sore big right toe that is hampering his movement. Jones said he aggravated some old bunions.
• Tom Glavine could return on this home stand, but will probably miss the Cubs series.
  
• Braves first baseman Casey Kotchman could miss a few games with a contusion of his right shin, the result of being hit by a pitch from D-backs right-hander Max Scherzer.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

5/31 Line-up and Notes

LF Soriano
SS Theriot
RF Bradley
1B Lee
CF Johnson
C Soto
2B Scales
3B Fontenot
P Marshall

• Lou said that when Big Z and Harden return to the rotation, he'd like to see/put Sean Marshall in the pen, and Keep Wells in the rotation. Only because the team needs a true lefty in the pen.
  
• Harden throw another bullpen session and reported no problems, and could throw off mound on Tuesday. No return date is set as of Sunday Afternoon.
  
• Ryan Dempster, who has a blister on the index finger of his right hand, will pitch either next Friday or Saturday for the Cubs.
• The Cubs released Minor League outfielder Richie Robnett.

Don't forget, off-day Monday.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes on the Cubs front

BREAKING: Lou Piniella pulled Dempster after seven innings for precautionary reasons due to a blister he's been fighting. Dempster will be re-evaluated on Tuesday and might have to be pushed back a couple of days but will not miss his next start.

• Expect Fontenot to play the majority of the time at third until Aramis returns. I personally want Jake Fox at third and will tolerate the defense.
• Rich Harden has made good progress, and Lou hinted that he could return at the end of the upcoming road schedule.
• Big Z has thrown a bullpen session before Saturdays game, to stay on track for his next start in HotLanta.
• Tyler Colvin, Cubs' No. 1 Draft pick in 2006, has been promoted to AA. You might remember he had Tommy John surgery which ended his 2008 season.

O yeah the Cubs won today 7-0 against those d*mn Dodgers.

It looks like Bradley and Fontenot are heating up, combined they've gone 5/7 on Saturday. I'm waiting anxiously for Soriano to go on a 23 for 60 stretch in which he hits 10 homeruns in 12 games.

Chicago Cubs
Pitchers	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	PC-ST	ERA
R Dempster (W, 4-3)	7.0	3	0	0	1	5	0	99-63	4.48

Dempster throw a gem today*********


IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes on Cubs sale

Thomas Ricketts is closer to purchasing the Cubs then previously thought. It was said that their was a disagreement over the terms of the team's broadcast contract with Tribune's WGN network that left the two sides as much as $50 million apart on the nearly $900-million deal. Some sort of signing could be reached next week, in the form of a commitment letter.

Commitment letters are formal and legally binding documents that are issued by a lender to a loan applicant. The text of the commitment lender contains an offer to extend a loan to the applicant. Within the content of the letter, the exact terms and conditions involved with the loan commitment are specified.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Im Back

I know all of you have have been missing me, but I am back, and back for good.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

ARAM...Trade...

UPDATE: Bruce Levine is reporting that Aram will be out 4-6 weeks, most sources have changed it to 4-6 weeks.

Aramis Ramirez will be out 4 to 8 weeks with a dislocated left shoulder, the Brewers medical staff popped it back in.

The Cubs also traded Joey Gathright to the O's for Ryan Freel, that should soften the blow a little bit. I personally think we'll be fine if Derrek Lee can stay healthy, If we can avoid any other serious injury, we should be in good shape.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog Phil Wilson

Notes

The Cubs and the O's are talking about a trade for Ryan Freel trade that would send him to the Cubs. Freel has 3.3 million dollars left on his contract, and would serve as a utility player. Freel, 33, plays all three outfield positions, plus second and third base. The revival of Kosuke Fukudome and emergence of Micah Hoffpauir have left the Cubs more in need of an infielder than an outfielder.

• It other news the Indians are interested in Vizcaino, earlier reports from his agent said that he had been traded.
• Gathright could be sent down when the Cubs call of Randy Wells, the problem is that he can declare free agency if he so wishes.
• Cubs really like Booby Scales, which is a great feel-good story.
  
• Derrek Lee has had neck problems again and he hopes to avoid the DL.

The Cubs bullpen is in disarray, the only reliable options are Marmol, Gregg, and Heilman. Look for the Cubs to upgrade it through a trade or call-ups.

Question of the week: Could Soriano win the MVP if he hits over 45 homeruns, 180 Hits, and bats above .290 plus 30-35 stolen bases. Comment!!

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Roster Moves...Notes...

UPDATE 4:52PM: Today the Cubs optioned Jeff Samardzija to Iowa and recalled Chad Fox.

The Cubs sale is progressing but it's still not close to being finalized. Unnamed source:

"Despite good intentions on both sides, the transaction will not completed by the owners' meeting, said sources familiar with the negotiations. But a second blown deadline is not an indication that the deal is in trouble, sources said. One person who asked not be identified said the sale is "proceeding slowly but proceeding."

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Update

Carlos Zambrano has been placed on the 15 day DL, the Cubs corresponded with calling up Bobby Scales from Iowa. Carlos will be back in two to three weeks.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Big Z..Cubs Win...31...Notes

Big Z was taken out of the game in the bottom of the fifth inning with a hamstring injury, it looks to be a strain. He had an MRI late Saturday afternoon and will get the details tomorrow, it looks like the He'll miss a start to two. But If he does need to miss a start the Cubs will have to call up a Minor League which means he'll go on the DL or someone will be sent down.

LOU: "I would say right now that's in jeopardy (next start), and if I had to guess, I'd say no (to possibly let him pitch)," Piniella said

Today the Cubs got the win for the third straight game. Big Z got the win, with a little help from Derrek Lee with his go ahead grand slam. Mike Fontenot also had a homer.

Ramirez did have a good workout on Sunday and Lou Piniella said the third baseman was "almost sure" for Monday night's game against the Giants.

Today was a special day for Chicago as the Cubs retired Greg Maddux and Fergie Jenkins. Both were recognized with there names beginning a new life on each foul poll.

Today I was at the game and it was a special moment when they pulled there flags on each foul poll, I'd like to congratulate both Fergie Jenkins and Greg Maddux.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Jake Peavy...WHAT?

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win

Yesterday (4/28/09) the Cubs beat the Diamondbacks 11 to 3, with a great pitching performance from Carlos Zambrano and Angel Guzman with his 2 innings of work to finish the game up. There were 3 home-runs yesterday; a 3-run homer by both Alfonso Soriano and Mike Fontenot and a 2-run homer by Big Z in the 7th. Bradley also got the swing of things with a 2-4 day with a walk.

Next game: It will be Ryan Dempster (1-0, 4.88) VS Doug Davis (1-3, 3.67)

As of now it looks like Ramirez might need another day or two, but could talk his way back in the line-up this afternoon. Derek Lee could be back as well, And Lou might give Soto another day with how Koyie Hill is playing.

Its a 2:40 start time at Chase Field on CSN.

April 28, 2009

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9		R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	3	4	2	1	1	0	0		11	15	0
Arizona	0	0	0	1	0	0	2	0	0		3	10	0

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

4/27 update

Update: Milton Bradley will be back Tuesday in the line-up, according to Cubs pre-game show.

According to reports from the Sun-Times...Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez and Milton Bradley are out for tonight's game. Carlos Marmol tossed a bullpen session and is "feeling 100% and will be available on Tuesday". The Cubs will have only Koyie Hill and Joey Gathright healthy and available. Tomorrow's starter, Carlos Zambrano is listed as an extra hitter for tonight's game.-CCO

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Injuries..Bradley..

UPDATE 3: Derrek Lee left the game in the bottom of the first with neck spasms and is listed as Day-to-Day.

UPDATE 2: Carlos Marmol had a MRI and it was revealed as a grade 1 strain in his knee and could return mid week. Aramis isn't in the starting line-up.

UPDATE: Aramis Ramirez will be out at least 3 days according to Bruce Levine. As far as Marmol is doesn't look like he'll go on the DL as he killed that rumor. But both will be re-ovulated later on Saturday.

9:37: Carlos Marmol left the game with an apparent foot, ankle, or leg injury. It seems he was taken out as precautionary reasons.

8:29pm: Aramis Ramirez left game in the fifth with a left calf strain. Update 8:50 he is day-to-day.

Bradley won't return until he's 100%. Words from Bradley:

"It's been frustrating," Bradley said. "You come in here and all [the media] want to talk about is how often you get hurt and your attitude and everything. I've given them an example right off the bat. I just don't feel like getting caught up in all the negativity.

"I'm a positive person, an upbeat person," he said. "I'm trying to focus on what I'm trying to do here. My teammates are behind me and the more reporters get in my face, the more I talk, the more things get written the way I don't say them or they're taken out of context, and that's when you lose teammates and you lose fans. The best strategy for me has always been to not say anything.

"I can sit here and think about the questions I'm going to get and the perfect answer to come up but when it comes to that time, and somebody throws a question at you, just the way they ask it or the question, might make me look perturbed at the question they're asking. I just prefer not to talk. I told Peter [Chase, media relations director] and everybody, and they suggested I talk. But I just don't want to do it.

"When I turn around and people are standing at my locker every time, I'm trying to figure out why because I've already told them I don't want to talk. That's the only thing -- I never had a problem with the media until I started reading stuff that wasn't what I said.

"I never had a problem in my life until I started playing baseball. All of a sudden, there are all these things. I just want to be me. I just want to be that guy who plays baseball and enjoys his teammates and has a good time. That's what I do."

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs to Call up the SHARK..Bradley.....Bullpen

UPDATE: Luis Vizcaino has been DFA'd.

The Cubs will call up Jeff Samardzija on Thursday so he can join the bullpen. Paul Sullivan is reporting that Milton Bradley will be back in today's game against the Reds. In order for Shark to join the bullpen someone will be released, traded, or sent down. Sullivan also notes that Cotts and Marshall wont be sent down. Good bye Luis Vizcaino? Maybe. Find out tomorrow.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Hot Topics

Lets start off the first edition of "Hot Topics" with a moment of silence to the late great Harry Kalas who died early this week on Monday.

One fan carried a sign that read: "What radio frequency does Heaven have?" Another said: "Harry the K, you hit a long drive right into our hearts!"

Hot Topics:

• Ken Kadokura, briefly with the Cubs, is headed to Korea.
• David Wells has signed a multiyear deal as a TBS analyst.
• Former pitcher Mark Fidrych was found dead at his home today at age 54. The cause was an apparent accident working under his pickup truck.
• The White Sox agreed to a minor league deal with Scott Podsednik.
• One source suggested the sale of the Cubs to the Ricketts family may drag on past May.
• The Red Sox claimed second baseman Travis Denker off waivers from the Padres today.
• Mets GM Omar Minaya, who said he has permission from ownership to increase payroll if necessary.
• The Pirates acquired outfielder Delwyn Young from the Dodgers for two minor league players to be named later. Young had been designated for assignment on Monday.
• The San Francisco Giants are looking to unload the $44 million they still owe Aaron Rowand through 2012.
• With the injury to Xavier Nady, the Yankees' right-fielder may need season-ending elbow surgery.
• Geoff Jenkins wants to play, and will probably cost only 400k.
  
• Alex Gordon is out 10-12 weeks due to hip surgery.
• The Twins claimed reliever Juan Morillo off waivers from the Rockies and designated Philip Humber for assignment.
• The Nationals are closing in on an extension with third baseman Ryan Zimmerman.
• the Pirates traded utility man Andy Phillips to the White Sox for minor league pitcher Michael Dubee.
• Austin Kearns or Jason Repko could become options for the Yankees if they decide to look outside the organization for outfield depth.
• Jed Lowrie will have his left wrist examined today in Arizona. (Most likely out for season.)
• Vladimir Guerrero will miss at least a month.
• Astros pick up Cecil Coopers 10' option.
• Red Sox appeal to Jake Peavy?
• Pedro in no rush.

SOURCE: MLBTR

Hot Topics will be back next Sunday.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Bradley Suspended

BREAKING: Milton Bradley has been suspended two games and fined an undisclosed amount for making contact with umpire Larry Vanover during Thursday's game against the Cardinals.

Update: Bradley has appealed the suspension. Only time will tell if it will be a smart move.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Chat, 4/18

Not a fun day at the office, Card to be next

Today the Cubs lose to the Rockies 5 to 2. Lets break it down.

Today Rich Harden pitched for the Cubs against Jason Marquiz and the Rockies, but unfortunately for us and Rich, he pitched like crap. But lets take the good out of the bad, he had 8 strikeouts in 3 innings (wow, what if he had some sort of arm strength, he would average 15-20 strikeouts per nine innings.) It was really just a bad start in my estimation. Some of the talk show/radio host are saying that Rich could be hurt cause he doesn't throw like that when healthy, so there assuming he's injured. In fact I think Rich had to much strength so he over pitched due to his occasional 97+ MPH fastballs, in which he rarely reaches that height.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Harden (L, 0-1)	3.0	5	4	4	4	8	1	5.00

The red indicates something he usually doesn't do or does a game.

The Cubs we're pretty boring today, besides Derrek Lee's bomb in the ninth inning. Another positive in today's game was the bullpen and especially David Patton who is really coming into his own. Stats below;

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Patton	2.0	1	0	0	1	3	0	2.25
Vizcaino	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Cotts	1.0	1	0	0	1	0	0	3.86
Guzman, A	2.0	2	1	1	1	3	0	5.79

----------------------------------------------------------------
Cardinals are in town starting Thursday at Wrigley, below is info for each game.

Cardinals (7-3) Cubs (5-3)

1. STL Adam Wainwright, RHP (1-0, 1.74) @ CHC Sean Marshall, LHP (0-0, 0.00)1:20 CSN
   
2. STL Kyle Lohse, RHP (2-0, 1.13) @ CHC Carlos Zambrano, RHP (1-0, 3.00) 1:20 WGN
   
3. STL Todd Wellemeyer, RHP (1-1,4.50) @ CHC Ryan Dempster, RHP (1-0, 4.50)2:40 FOX
4. STL TBA @ CHC Ted Lilly, LHP (2-0, 3.86) 7:05 ESPN
   

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs off day, Notes

Today is a scheduled off-day for the Cubs, and they will continue the series with the Rockies on Wednesday and finish it up. Jason Marquis will square up against Rich Harden at 1:20 on CSN.

Notes:

1. Geovany Soto is still expected to be back on Wednesday. He's been out for nearly a week because of a sore right shoulder. He's eager to get back. "I'm bored out of my mind," Soto said.
2. Lou stated that Gregg is sharpening up.
3. Milton Bradley will be back by the latest on Friday, but is just day-to-day. Aramis Ramirez will be back on Wednesday.
   
4. A couple of newspapers outlets have said that the Cubs sale could drag out past May.
   

From MLBtraderumors.com; here are some possible trade candidates:

• Jake Peavy
• Roy Halladay
• Erik Bedard
• Rick Ankiel
• Adam LaRoche
• Miguel Tejada
• Adrian Beltre
• Matt Holliday
• Jermaine Dye
• Brian Giles
• Aubrey Huff
• Kevin Millwood
• Magglio Ordonez
• Vernon Wells
• Dan Uggla

I will be having a Chat this Saturday at noon till the start of the Cubs and Cardinals game at 2:40, which is a national telecast game.

Also, starting this Sunday "Hot Topics" will premiere.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Bradley out for Monday

Breaking News: Milton Bradley will miss the Cubs home opener and is listed as day-to-day.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win

The Cubs 6 The Brewers 5, what a douse.

The Cubs scored in each of the last 4 innings to come back and win the game by a final score of 6 to 5. Kosuke Fukudome had another great game going 2-5 with a double and a home-run, as well as Ryan Theriot who is now batting .563.

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	5	2	2	3	0	0	2	.280
Fukudome, CF	5	1	2	2	0	1	2	.421
Lee, 1B	5	0	0	0	0	0	1	.091
Bradley, RF	4	0	0	0	0	1	1	.063
Ramirez, A, 3B	4	1	1	1	0	0	1	.333
Fontenot, 2B	1	1	0	0	3	1	0	.389
Theriot, SS	4	0	2	0	0	0	2	.563
Hill, K, C	4	0	1	0	0	1	1	.231
Zambrano, C, P	2	0	0	0	0	1	1	.000
a-Hoffpauir, PH	1	0	0	0	0	1	3	.333
Guzman, A, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Cotts, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Heilman, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
b-Johnson, R, PH	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	.500
1-Gathright, PR	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Marmol, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Totals	36	6	9	6	3	6	14

The Cubs entered the ninth inning trailing 4 to 5 with 3 outs remaining. first-up is Koyie Hill flied to center (1 down), up comes a pinch hitter for Aaron Heilman in Reed Johnson who hit a fastball right back up the middle. Next up is "the man of the hour" Alfonso Soriano who hit a tape measure home-run to left field to give the Cubs the lead 6-5. After the Cubs made two outs, Carlos Marmol came in to close and did a great job. Cubs Win, Cubs Win!

I'll have some notes later in the day.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Lose...4/11 Matchup.....

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9		R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	0	1	0	2	0	0	0		3	9	1
Milwaukee	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	2		4	4	0

The hitting wasn't the problem since we blew the save in the ninth inning, but the Cubs should score between 5-6 runs per game on average. It was nice to see K, Hill and Milton Bradley hit home-runs this season.

The pitching performance by harden was a gem, if only he had arm strength on 115-130 he'd average 15 strikeouts a game. Kevin Gregg blew the save but lets not get are panties up in a bunch just yet, I'd give Gregg the month of April to "win" people back or show people that he can do it. Personally I want him to be the closer because Marmol is sick nasty in that 7th/8th inning role.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Harden	6.0	3	2	1	2	10	1	1.50
Heilman	0.1	0	0	0	1	0	0	0.00
Cotts	0.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	6.75
Marmol	0.2	0	0	0	1	0	0	0.00
Marshall	0.0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0.00
Vizcaino	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Gregg (BS, 1)(L, 0-1)	0.2	1	2	2	2	1	0	13.50

----------------------------------------------
The Cubs face the Milwaukee Brewers at 6:05 CT at Miller park on CSN with the pre-game starting at 5:30 CT.
Pitching Match-up: (from Cubs.com)
CHC: RHP Carlos Zambrano (1-0, 1.50 ERA)
Zambrano can take a deep breath. He finally won on Opening Day, beating the Astros, 4-2, in his fifth season-opening assignment. Big Z gave up one run over six-plus innings and struck out six. He was 1-0 with am 0.43 ERA in three starts against the Brewers last year. The last time Zambrano pitched at Miller Park was Sept. 14, 2008, and he threw a no-hitter. That game was against the Astros, who were relocated because of Hurricane Ike. The last time he faced the Brewers on their home turf was last July 29, when he threw eight shutout innings, giving up five hits and striking out nine.

MIL: RHP Dave Bush (0-0, 18.00 ERA)
Bush starts the season as Milwaukee No. 5 starter, but he's better than that, going 33-31 in his three-year Brewers career, with a 4.57 ERA and at least 185 innings each season. His strength is his ability to limit baserunners. Bush has finished in the National League top five in WHIP (walks plus hits per innings pitched) in two of the past three seasons, finishing fifth last year at 1.14, behind league leader Cole Hamels (1.08) of the Phillies, Ricky Nolasco of the Marlins, Dan Haren of the D-Backs and Derek Lowe of the Dodgers. The rest of the top 10 reads like an All-Star team: Johan Santana, Ben Sheets, Tim Lincecum, Roy Oswalt, Jake Peavy. "You can't score runs if you don't get guys on base," Brewers manager Ken Macha said. "I'm very impressed with him. I saw him pitch when he was in Toronto, and he knows what he doing out there. He's got a lot of equipment to get you out a lot of different ways." Bush has really struggled against the Cubs, going 1-7 in his career, despite a respectable 4.84 ERA. But he is excellent at Miller Park: 28-20 with a 3.82 ERA in 71 appearances, vs. 15-26 with a 5.18 ERA on the road.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes....Nick Adenhart

• Geo Soto could be back as soon as the finale in Milwaukee, no DL time will be needed
• Peavy...A matter of Time. Read article here.
• The Cubs took 2 of 3 in Houston.
  

Today the Cubs face the Brewers in Miller Park at 3:05 on WGN. In today's match-up Rich Harden will square up against Braden Looper.

Yesterday was a sad day for baseball when young phenomenon Nick Adenhart was killed in a hit-and-run car crash, the offender was caught shortly and hospitalized. I hope the Felon is thrown in in jail for life for taking not one but three lives of Thursday morning. Adenhart and friends Courtney Stewart and Henry Pearson were killed. The fourth friend, Jon Wilhite, was taken to the hospital in critical condition. This event was a couple hours removed from Nick Adenhart's game of his life aganist the A's.

Notes

Notes:

• According to Buster Onlney (#2 on the list) on Jake Peavy; he "feels like it's only a matter of time before he winds up in a Cubs uniform."
• Big Z beats the Astros and faces them for the first time since his no-hitter.
• Big Z is playing the role of team leader for the Cubs, writes Chris De Luca.

If anything breaks, develops or breaks it'll be posted here.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Money in the Bank.....

USA Today's annual baseball salary issue listed the Cubs' 2009 payroll at $134,809,000, third highest among Major League teams behind the two New York clubs, Yankees and Mets. Carlos Zambrano is the highest paid Cubs player at $18.75 million, and ninth among all active players.

How far have players come? In 1989, Rick Sutcliffe was the highest paid Cubs player at $2.34 million, which ranked sixth overall in MLB. The Cubs currently have 12 players on their 25-man roster who make more than Sut did then.- Carrie Muskat

Higher then the Boston Red Sox? Wow, that's big! Get job Cubs!

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win...Milestone.....

April 6, 2009

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9		R	H	E
Chi Cubs	1	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	1		4	9	0
Houston	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	1		2	8	0

Big Z pitched great last night, and here's what he said:

"I wasn't thinking that today was Opening Day," Zambrano said. "I was not in a panic, not nervous. I was just in control of myself. I was thinking it was another game, another game of my career, another game for the Chicago Cubs. Just go out there and have fun, perform good."

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Zambrano, C (W, 1-0)	6.0	5	1	1	3	6	0	1.50
Heilman (H, 1)	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Cotts (H, 1)	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Marmol (H, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	1	0	0	0.00
Gregg (S, 1)	1.0	2	1	1	0	0	0	9.00

Soriano and Ramirez both had home runs in the fantastic game, here are the hitting stats.

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	5	1	2	1	0	0	5	.400
Fukudome, CF	4	0	0	0	0	1	1	.000
Gregg, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Lee, 1B	4	0	0	0	0	1	0	.000
Bradley, RF	3	0	0	0	1	0	0	.000
Ramirez, A, 3B	4	1	1	1	0	0	1	.250
Fontenot, 2B	4	2	3	0	0	0	0	.750
Soto, C	4	0	1	0	0	1	2	.250
Theriot, SS	2	0	1	1	1	0	2	.500
Zambrano, C, P	3	0	0	0	0	1	3	.000
Heilman, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Cotts, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Marmol, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
a-Hoffpauir, PH	1	0	1	1	0	0	0	1.000
Gathright, CF	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Totals	34	4	9	4	2	4	14

MVP: Carlos Zambrano for his great pitching performance against the Astros, and for getting his first opening day win in 5 try's.

LVP: Kosuke Fukudome and Derrek Lee for both going 0 for 4 with a strikeout.

Ramirez's home run was the 250th of his career and his 174th as a Cub. Congratulations Aramis for your great career so far, keep it going. (He is 31 years old.)

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Opening Day Line-up, Predictions, and a Former Cub

Here's Monday's lineup:
LF Alfonso Soriano
CF Kosuke Fukudome
1B Derrek Lee
RF Milton Bradley
3B Aramis Ramirez
2B Mike Fontenot
C Geovany Soto,
SS Ryan Theriot
P Carlos Zambrano

Right now, the roof is open at Minute Maid Park but it's 56 degrees and a little chilly. No word on whether it'll stay open.

Now It's time for the Predictions!

Individual stats: (stats go HR, RBI's, BA)
Derrek Lee- 27, 92, .301
Mike Fontenot- 13, 62, .293
Aaron Miles- 4, 41, .309
Ryan Theriot- 0, 39, .315
Aramis Ramirez- 37, 128, .292
Geovany Soto- 23, 96, .283
Alfonso Soriano- 46, 89, .293, 34SB
Kosuke Fukudome- 10, 69, .286
Milton Bradley- 31, 105, .322
Micah Hoffpauir- 14, 55, .274
Joey Gathright- 0, 38, .279
Koyie Hill- 4, 28, .229
Stats have changed on a regular basis for me. But this is my final version.

Starters
Zambrano 19-7 2.99ERA 194K
HARDEN 13-3 1.92ERA 183K
LILLY 18-11 3.97ERA 201K
DEMPSTER 15-7 3.63ERA 195K
MARSHALL 13-12 4.12ERA 157K

BULLPEN (wins will not be added in)
Gregg 37 saves, 3.15ERA, 77K
Marmol 11 saves, 2.29ERA, 112K
Cotts 3.40ERA, 50K
Patton 3.74ERA, 42K
Vizcaino 3.97ERA, 52K
Heilman 3.12ERA, 129 (starts will add some of those K's)
Guzman 4.31ERA, 49 K

NL Central:

• 1. Cubs
• 2. Cardinals
• 3. Reds
• 4. Brewers
• 5. Astros
• 6. Pirates

NL West:

• 1. Dodgers
• 2. Giants
• 3. D'backs
• 4. Rockies
• 5. Padres

NL East:

• 1. Mets
  
• 2. Phillies
• 3. Braves
• 4. Marlins
• 5. Nationals

AL Central:

• 1. Indians
• 2. Twins
• 3. White Sox
• 4. Royals
• 5. Tigers

AL East:

• 1. Yankees
• 2. Red Sox
• 3. Rays
• 4. Blue Jays
• 5. O's

AL West:

• 1. Angels
• 2. A's
• 3. Rangers
• 4. Seattle

Wild-card in Bold.

My bracket:
NL

Cubs
Phillies

Mets
Dodgers

Cubs
Mets

Cubs make it to the World Series!

AL

Yankees
Indians

Red Sox
Angels

Red Sox
Yankees

Red Sox make it the the World Series!

Cubs
Red Sox

Cubs win World Series in 6 games with Marmol going 3 Innings (7, 8, and 9) with 9K's.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
I would like to congratulate Matt Clement for a good career. He has retired at age 34 with a lifetime record of 87 wins and 86 loses.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Release Chad Gaudin, Option Samardzija.

BREAKING: Cubs have released Chad Gaudin and optioned Jeff Samardzija to AAA, giving the final two spots in their bullpen to Angel Guzman and Rule 5 pickup David Patton.

Well done Jim Hendry and Lou for doing the smart thing. GO CUBS

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Big Z Want's New Stadium...Notes...Blog News

At new Yankee Stadium Carlos Zambrano made a plea for change in Chicago. That change is that Big Z wants Wrigley to be replaced. Here's what he said:

"You come into a ballpark like this and you see great things."

"You wish that Chicago'd build a new stadium for the Cubs," he added.

"People are used to Wrigley Field," he said. "As a fan it's hard to think of a new ballpark."

Cubs manager Lou Piniella couldn't agree less with his Opening Day starter. The former Yankees outfielder and manager was enchanted by the new ballpark in the Bronx, but can't wait to return to Chicago for the first home game on April 13.

"I don't see why," Piniella said when asked if the Cubs need a new stadium. "Wrigley's got its own uniqueness. There's no question the facilities need to be redone but that's going to happen.

"My favorite time of year is when the ivy turns green. It's really a great environment to play a ballgame," he said.

Special thanks to ESPN.com

Notes:

• The roster will be finalized today at 2:00pm. Between Patton, Shark Boy, Guzman, and Gaudin, which two will make the club? My Guess is Patton and Guzman.
• The Cubs were selected 3 out of the 21 writers by ESPN to win the World Series. But 6 of the 21 say t hat the Cubs will be in the World Series.

Later Today I will have a recap of the Cub predictions from "MLB Tonight Predictions" show on MLBN.

Remember the FIRST Sunday of the regular season which is on April 12, is the first edition of "HOT TOPICS" which will be hot DUH.

IF you an author for an American League blog for any website, could you please comment or Email me!
This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson