Chicago Cubs Blog

Cub Notes

2009-07-16T16:23:00.003-05:00

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

2009-07-14T22:50:00.006-05:00

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

2009-07-13T12:44:00.002-05:00

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

2009-07-13T11:58:00.002-05:00

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

2009-06-16T15:22:00.005-05:00

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

2009-06-14T12:11:00.002-05:00

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

2009-06-11T20:15:00.002-05:00

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

2009-06-10T17:00:00.002-05:00

Tonight's lineup:

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

Jackson, Brett

UC Berkeley

L/R

6'02"

210

1988-08-02

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.

LeMahieu, David

Louisiana St U

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?

2009-06-10T08:55:00.003-05:00

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

2009-06-07T10:38:00.002-05:00

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

2009-06-05T07:39:00.003-05:00

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

2009-06-01T21:30:00.003-05:00

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

2009-05-31T17:58:00.002-05:00

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

2009-05-30T20:55:00.003-05:00

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

2009-05-30T20:47:00.002-05:00

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

2009-05-30T20:45:00.001-05:00

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...

2009-05-08T23:14:00.003-05:00

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

2009-05-08T12:57:00.002-05:00

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...

2009-05-06T16:58:00.002-05:00

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

2009-05-04T17:35:00.001-05:00

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

2009-05-03T21:28:00.004-05:00

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?

2009-04-29T20:34:00.001-05:00

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win

2009-04-29T07:42:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-27T18:39:00.003-05:00

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..

2009-04-24T20:52:00.007-05:00

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

2009-04-22T17:12:00.004-05:00

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

2009-04-19T11:51:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-18T13:26:00.004-05:00

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

2009-04-18T09:45:00.000-05:00

Cubs Chat

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

2009-04-15T18:18:00.004-05:00

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)

STL Adam Wainwright, RHP (1-0, 1.74) @ CHC Sean Marshall, LHP (0-0, 0.00)1:20 CSN
STL Kyle Lohse, RHP (2-0, 1.13) @ CHC Carlos Zambrano, RHP (1-0, 3.00) 1:20 WGN
STL Todd Wellemeyer, RHP (1-1,4.50) @ CHC Ryan Dempster, RHP (1-0, 4.50)2:40 FOX
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

2009-04-14T15:51:00.003-05:00

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:

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.
Lou stated that Gregg is sharpening up.
Milton Bradley will be back by the latest on Friday, but is just day-to-day. Aramis Ramirez will be back on Wednesday.
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

2009-04-13T02:15:00.001-05:00

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

2009-04-12T09:42:00.003-05:00

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.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

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

2009-04-11T11:40:00.002-05:00

	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.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes....Nick Adenhart

2009-04-10T09:20:00.003-05:00

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

2009-04-07T11:21:00.004-05:00

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.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Money in the Bank.....

2009-04-07T11:11:00.002-05:00

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!

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win...Milestone.....

2009-04-07T05:51:00.003-05:00

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

2009-04-06T15:27:00.003-05:00

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.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Release Chad Gaudin, Option Samardzija.

2009-04-05T14:29:00.002-05:00

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

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

2009-04-05T10:45:00.006-05:00

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.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes...News...

2009-04-02T20:21:00.002-05:00

Notes:

The Cubs beat the Indians 9-8 with a shaky start from Ryan Dempster. On the positive note, Alfonso Soriano hit a lead-off home run today.
The Cubs released Ken Kadokura.
Some indications out there are that the Cubs are interested in Mike Lamb who cleared waivers after being released earlier in the week.
Chad Gaudin is still being targeted by select teams, and his value is shot at best and in my estimation, we should cut him loose.

Please read this article I wrote earlier in the evening. Click Here

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Blog News...

2009-04-02T13:53:00.003-05:00

Blog News: Starting this Sunday through the end of the season I will have a post called "HOT TOPICS" which will be news surrounding the Cubs and all twenty-nine other teams. The post would be about:

Recent injuries to MLB players.
Players who have been DFA'd, waived, traded, and signed.
Records on the verge or that have been broken.
Controversy in MLB.
My player (s) of the week for all of baseball.
Teams that are hot and cold.
Occasional analysis.
Players sent down to the farm.
Occasional plays of the week (Video for ESPN.)
AND all NEWS that surrounds baseball and it's players, teams, coaching staff, owners, fans, and etc.

Including, at the end of each month a team ranking of all 30 teams.

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Rockies Looking to Acquire Chad Gaudin

2009-04-02T11:32:00.002-05:00

According to Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune; Word out of Denver is that the Rockies have major interest is Chad Gaudin.

"If that happens, the Cubs could keep both Angel Guzman and Rule 5 pick David Patton, and send Jeff Samardzija to Triple-A Iowa. The Cubs probably aren't expecting much back for Gaudin, who hasn't pitched well since his mysterious fall last August put him on the disabled list with backs problems."-Paul Sullivan

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Notes...Cubs Tie...

2009-04-01T18:30:00.003-05:00

Notes:

Old news~Chad Fox will start the season in AAA as insurance and to build strength in his arm.
The Cubs traded Rocky Roquet to the Oakland A's for a player to be named later on Wednesday.
The Cubs also released Ed Campusano on Wednesday.
There have been several media circuits claiming that the Tigers and Padres as well as mystery teams interested in Chad Gaudin and Angel Guzman.

The Cubs ended with a tie with the Oakland A's in today's game. Soto has a great game with a grand slam and a solo bomb. Alfonso has woken up with a 2-hit game. Carlos Zambrano did fair in a tune-up game, stats below.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Zambrano, C	3.1	2	1	1	2	1	0	3.20

What you like is only 1 run, and only 2-hits allowed, what you don't like is 1 K.

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Cubs April TV and Radio Schedule

2009-04-01T09:24:00.003-05:00

Date	Opponent	Time (CT)	TV	Radio
Note: Spring training games are listed below in green.

April
Wednesday, April 1	@ Athletics	3:05 PM
Thursday, April 2	vs Indians	2:05 PM
Friday, April 3	@ Yankees	6:05 PM	MLB.TV, MLBN
Saturday, April 4	@ Yankees	12:05 PM	CSN Chicago, MLB.TV	WGN 720
Monday, April 6	@ Astros	6:05 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Tuesday, April 7	@ Astros	7:05 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Wednesday, April 8	@ Astros	7:05 PM	CSN+	WGN 720
Friday, April 10	@ Brewers	3:05 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Saturday, April 11	@ Brewers	6:05 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Sunday, April 12	@ Brewers	7:05 PM	ESPN	WGN 720
Monday, April 13	vs Rockies	1:20 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Wednesday, April 15	vs Rockies	1:20 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Thursday, April 16	vs Cardinals	1:20 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Friday, April 17	vs Cardinals	1:20 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Saturday, April 18	vs Cardinals	2:40 PM	FOX	WGN 720
Sunday, April 19	vs Cardinals	7:05 PM	ESPN	WGN 720
Tuesday, April 21	vs Reds	7:05 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Wednesday, April 22	vs Reds	7:05 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Thursday, April 23	vs Reds	1:20 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Friday, April 24	@ Cardinals	7:15 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Saturday, April 25	@ Cardinals	3:10 PM	FOX	WGN 720
Sunday, April 26	@ Cardinals	1:15 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Monday, April 27	@ Diamondbacks	8:40 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Tuesday, April 28	@ Diamondbacks	8:40 PM	WGN	WGN 720
Wednesday, April 29	@ Diamondbacks	2:40 PM	CSN	WGN 720
Thursday, April 30	vs Marlins	7:05 PM	WCIU	WGN 720

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This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Did you know....Cubs Lose...

2009-03-31T18:58:00.002-05:00

... the batter who was the last to hit a home run for the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium in a World Series game could be leading off the first game ever played at new Yankee Stadium? Alfonso Soriano hit a two-run homer with two outs in the fourth inning in Game 2 of the 2003 World Series off Rick Helling, which opened a 6-0 lead. The Yankees won, 6-1.

Soriano would be the leadoff man on Friday for the Cubs when they help the Yankees open their new home ballpark with an exhibition game. --Carrie Muskat (Cubs.com) --------------------------------------------------------------------- The Cubs lost 8-4, with a poor outing by Sean Marshall. David Patton did good after letting in two inherited runs, Gregg has quited critics with his great spring, today Gregg went one inning while striking out 3.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Marshall (L, 3-1)	3.1	8	8	8	2	5	1	4.39
Patton	1.2	2	0	0	0	3	0	0.73
Heilman	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	0	2.12
Vizcaino	1.0	1	0	0	2	2	0	2.89
Fox, C	1.0	0	0	0	1	0	0	2.45
Gregg	1.0	0	0	0	0	3	0	0.00

Fukudome had a great day going 2-3, with a triple. Hoffpauir has hit another (2-run) homerun, and still leads the world in RBI's with 26.

MVP: Hoffpauir
LVP: Sean Marshall

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Cuts...Notes...

2009-03-30T12:33:00.002-05:00

According to a press release, the Cubs released catcher Paul Bako and reliever Mike Stanton today. So, it looks like Koyie Hill has the team's backup catcher job.

Notes:

The Cubs are getting some calls about Chad Gaudin and Angel Guzman, a trade would most likely open a spot for David Patton on the 25-man roster.
Koyie Hill will be the back-up catcher to Geo Soto.
Former first round pick of the Cubs, Mark Pawelek, has been released after failing to get past high A ball.

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The Latest Round of Cuts...

2009-03-29T16:19:00.002-05:00

On Sunday before the game against the Indians, Kevin Hart and Randy Wells were optioned to Triple-A Iowa and So Taguchi was reassigned to Minor League camp. Andres Blanco, Esteban German, and Mark Johnson were also re-assigned to minor league camp. Including the outright assignment of Brad Snyder to Triple-A on Friday. This means the roster is down to 30, ONLY 5 more cuts to go.

So it looks like Gathright will make the team after all. GOOD, that's better then So Taguchi.

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Gregg Named Closer.

2009-03-29T14:17:00.002-05:00

According to Carrie Musket from cubs.com; Kevin Gregg will be the Cubs closer for the upcoming Cubs season.

I'm satisfied with Lou's decision of picking Gregg, but I hope Marmol doesn't burn out by the consent usage. Lou had this to say "I couldn't go wrong either way." As Marmol admitted he was disappointed at the news.

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Notes...Cubs Blogs Weigh In...

2009-03-28T10:28:00.002-05:00

Notes:

Brad Snyder was outrighted to Triple A.
On Tuesday the Cubs released Ryan Harvey.
Cubs outrighted Richie Robnett to Triple-A Iowa.
Closer and back-up catcher roles should be announced this weekend (Sunday?)
Kosuke will play as much as possible in CF.
kosuke has a different vibe this spring training.
Roster stands at 37 players, what does this mean trade, signing, anything?

-----------------------------------
Cubs Blog Weigh in:

Cubs be Rollin' Rollin' Rollin', a recap for the Cubs win against the Sox.-CCO
Looking back at 84' Cubs acquire Dernier and Matthews.-CCO
Former Cub spring training stats.-CCB
Should Fukudome be sent down? Or traded for Gary Mathews Jr.-Hot Stove Cubbies
***Jake Peavy resurfaced.-Cubs Corner

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Cubs Win.

2009-03-27T18:06:00.002-05:00

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi White Sox	0	0	0	2	0	0	1	0	1	4	9	2
Chi Cubs	7	0	2	0	0	0	0	0	X	9	12	0

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	4	1	2	1	0	1	1	.345
Snyder, LF-RF	1	0	0	0	0	1	1	.273
Fukudome, CF	4	1	1	0	0	1	1	.250
Gathright, CF	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.268
Lee, 1B	4	1	2	1	0	1	0	.267
Hoffpauir, 1B	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.296
Bradley, RF	2	0	1	0	2	1	0	.500
Vizcaino, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Stanton, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Fox, C, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Ramirez, A, 3B	4	1	0	1	0	1	5	.289
German, 3B	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.235
Miles, 2B	4	2	3	1	0	1	1	.314
Blanco, A, 2B	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.311
Theriot, SS	3	2	1	0	1	0	2	.415
Hill, K, C	2	1	1	2	1	0	1	.390
Bako, C	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.344
Zambrano, C, P	3	0	0	2	0	0	3	.444
Guzman, A, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	1.000
Taguchi, LF	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	.263
Totals	34	9	12	8	4	7	16

MVP: Carlos Zambrano .
LVP: Hate to say it...ARAM.

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The Sweet 16...

2009-03-25T22:22:00.002-05:00

In accordance with March Madness, MLB.com's Marty Noble presents his fourth annual Sweet 16, this one devoted to the Cubs. Here are 16 facts or sets of facts that celebrate the Cubs. Any disputes, take them up with Mr. Noble:

1. The Cubs have won 16 league championships, but only one -- in 1945 -- since 1938. The other championship years were: 1876, 1880, 1881, 1882, 1885, 1886, 1906, 1907, 1908, 1910, 1918, 1929, 1932 and 1935.

2. Beginning in 1982 and through 1997 -- 16 years -- Harry Caray brought Cubs baseball to the masses.

3. Cubs players have won 16 BBWAA awards: eight MVP awards -- Ernie Banks (1958, 1959), Phil Cavaretta (1945), Andre Dawson (1987) , Gabby Hartnett (1935), Ryne Sandberg (1984), Hank Sauer (1952), Sammy Sosa (1998); three Cy Young Awards -- Ferguson Jenkins (1971), Greg Maddux (1992), Rick Sutcliffe (1984); and five Rookie of the Year Awards: Ken Hubbs (1962), Geovany Soto (2008), Jerome Walton (1989), Billy Williams (1961), Kerry Wood (1998).

4. Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks, played 16 full seasons, from 1955 through 1969. Banks averaged 150 games per season and never played in less than 130 games. The franchise record for most seasons for a pitcher is 16, by Charlie Root.

5. Sixteen is the Cubs' record for home runs hit by a pitcher. Carlos Zambrano holds the honor. He has hit six, two and four the last three seasons.

6. A Cubs pitcher has allowed at least 12 runs in a game 16 times, but only twice since 1900. George Zettllein was responsible for the other 14 -- all in 1874. He allowed 29 runs in a complete game. That's right, 29, but only 19 were earned.

7. Sutcliffe won 16 games for the Cubs in his Cy Young season, 1984. He also won 16 consecutive regular-season decisions, a club record he established by winning the last 14 decisions in '84 and his first two starts in '85.

8. Sixteen straight losses. The Cubs lost their final two games in 1996 and the first 14 the following season. The 14 straight losses constitute the longest losing streak in franchise history.

9. Sixteen is the one-game National League record for extra-base hits, established by the 1883 Cubs (July 3, versus Buffalo).

10. The Cubs had 16 doubles in the 1945 World Series, their most recent World Series appearance.

11. Mark Prior struck out 16 Brewers in his 16th start of the 2003 season, on June 26.

12. The Cubs lost 16 of the 20 games Elvin "El" Tappe managed in 1962 as a member of the Cubs' infamous college of coaches, a bizarre concept implemented by Cubs owner P.K. Wrigley in '61 and '62. Tappe and four others rotated as the big league manager and as minor league coaches and managers. The Cubs lost 90 games in 1961 and 103 the following year. Their 59-103 record in '62 stood alone as the worst record by an established team in an expansion season until when the Mets duplicated it in 1993. The Marlins exceeded it in 1998 when they lost 108 games.

13. Ken Hubbs wore No. 16 in his Rookie of the Year Award season, 1962.

14. The Cubs scored 16 runs, a franchise record, in their Opening Day games in 2005, in Arizona, and in 2006, in Cincinnati and never scored as many runs again in either season.

15. Cubs home run leaders Phil Cavarretta and Bill Nicholson combined for 16 home runs -- eight each -- in 1946. Rookie Ralph Kiner of the Pirates led the National League with 23.

16. The Cubs have played 16 games that have ended in 16 innings, beginning with a 6-6 tie against the Phillies Aug. 19. 1930. They didn't play another 16-inning games for 16 years.

Thanks: Marty Noble

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Cuts...Notes...

2009-03-24T14:56:00.003-05:00

The Cubs optioned Jake Fox, Sam Fuld, and Jose Ascanio in the latest round of roster cuts on Tuesday morning and and re-assigned Jason Waddell and Bobby Scales to minor league camp.

Rich Harden could be skipped the first time around, so Marshall would be placed in the 4th spot and start the first few weeks (instead of being skipped.)
Paul Bako is back in back-up catchers role discussion.
Kosuke Fukudome should be back in camp Wednesday and will have an appearance in Thursday nights game in Scottsdale vs. the Giants.
Micah Hoffpauir also has a role in "My Boys."
Lou Piniella says all roster decisions will be made before the team goes to New York for the two games against the Yankees, April 3-4.
Ted Lilly threw a simulated game on the backfield at 8:30 a.m., and will be slotted into the rotation to follow Ryan Dempster. Rich Harden is on track to start in a Minor League game Wednesday at Fitch Park.

I'd like to congratulate Team Japan and Kosuke Fukudome for winning the World Baseball Classic.

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Cubs Win Big....

2009-03-23T19:52:00.002-05:00

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	1	0	1	1	2	7	5	2	1	20	24	1
Oakland	0	0	0	0	1	1	0	0	3	5	11	0

2B: Hoffpauir 2, R, Johnson, Bako 2, Mota, J, M, Johnson,.
3B: Theriot.
HR: Lee and Bako.

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Theriot, SS	3	2	3	2	1	0	0	.432
Blanco, A, SS	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	.318
Fontenot, 2B	4	2	2	1	0	0	3	.368
German, 2B	1	2	1	0	1	0	0	.308
Lee, DH	5	1	2	1	0	1	5	.229
b-Johnson, M, PH-DH	1	1	1	0	0	0	0	.250
Hoffpauir, RF	4	2	2	1	0	2	4	.286
Deeds, D, RF	1	0	0	0	0	1	1	.243
Fox, J, 1B	5	2	3	3	0	1	3	.350
Johnson, R, CF	3	2	2	3	0	0	2	.340
Mota, J, LF	2	1	1	2	0	0	1	.500
Scales, 3B	6	2	2	3	0	0	2	.333
Hill, K, C	2	0	0	0	0	1	1	.385
Bako, C	4	2	4	3	0	0	0	.333
Taguchi, LF	2	1	1	0	1	1	0	.235
a-Fuld, PH-CF	3	0	0	0	0	0	2	.250
Totals	49	20	24	19	3	7	24

The pitching did pretty good besides Cotts, who had his first rough game.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Dempster (W, 2-2)	4.1	3	1	1	1	6	0	1.56
Gregg	0.2	0	0	0	1	1	0	0.00
Heilman	1.0	2	1	1	1	0	0	1.84
Vizcaino	1.0	1	0	0	1	2	0	3.68
Patton	1.0	1	0	0	1	1	0	1.04
Cotts	0.1	4	3	3	1	1	0	3.86
Hart, K	0.2	0	0	0	0	2	0	6.00

MVP: Paul Bako (4-4, 3RBI's, 2R, 2B, with nine total bases.
LVP: Neil Cotts for his rough outing.

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Cubs Win..Notes...

2009-03-21T22:13:00.003-05:00

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	3	6	0	3	1	0	0	13	19	0
Chi White Sox	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	8	2

HR: Soriano, Bradley, and Fox, J.
2B: Theriot, Taguchi, and J Fox.
RBI: Soriano 2 (7), Bradley 3 (5), Taguchi (9), R Johnson (9), Fox, J 5 (13), Scales (8).

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Marshall (W, 3-0)	5.0	5	2	2	0	3	1	1.40
Samardzija	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	9.00
Vizcaino	1.0	0	0	0	0	2	0	4.26
Stanton	1.0	1	0	0	1	0	0	3.86
Fox, C	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	2.16

MVP: Sean Marshall and Milton Bradley.

Sean Marshall has look great this spring, and deserves that 5th starter spot (the most likely scenario is having Marshall in the 4th spot with Harden in that 5th spot so he can have scheduled days off.) Mike Stanton has been good this spring, and is in the hunt for a bullpen spot on the Cubs.
------------------------------------------------------
NOTES:

Ted Lilly will most likely not pitch again in the WBC unless it's out of the bullpen.
Derrek Lee is expected to return to the line-up on Sunday.
Geo has gained some weight, but Lou said that Arizona heat will trim him down.
David Patton has looked really good this spring.
Mike Fontenot will appear on a episode of "My Boys" this upcoming season which starts on March 31.

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Corey Koskie Retires.

2009-03-21T13:04:00.002-05:00

Corey Koskie retired today from the game of baseball, due to his concussion he suffered on July 6, 2006 while playing for the Brewers, that still makes him light headed. Corey said "it wasn't worth the risk." He is what else had had to say:

"You get caught up in what if I came back -- it'd be a great story," he said. "The big story is I had the opportunity to play. But is it really worth it to play?"

"Look at the facts -- I'm 35," he said. "I still can play. But if I play, I want to be 100 percent. I don't want the 'what if I dive, what if I do this.' Really, what am I trying to do to squeeze out two more years?"

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Notes..News...Cubs Win....

2009-03-19T18:51:00.003-05:00

Reports from Gordon Wittenmyer; The Cubs should have payroll capabilities during mid-season for a trade. The Cubs ownership should be completed well before hand so that the Cubs can add payroll, due to the team's continuously strong revenue sources. Wittenmyer quotes Kenney as saying the Tribune and the Ricketts family are "very close to the terms of their deal," which could be wrapped up in May.

Breaking news: Lou Piniella has announced Thursday that Sean Marshall will be the teams 5th starter.
----------------------------------------------

Corey Koskie left the game due to him not feeling well.
Derrek Lee has decided not to play for team USA in the semifinals.
Soto is back in camp.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	6	1	0	0	0	2	0	9	13	2
Seattle	0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	2	11	0

HR: Hoffpauir and Fox, J.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Heilman (W, 1-0)	3.2	4	1	0	1	3	0	1.32
Wells, R	1.1	1	1	1	1	2	0	1.59
Fox, C	1.1	2	0	0	0	0	0	2.45
Stanton	0.2	2	0	0	0	2	0	4.50
Patton	1.0	2	0	0	0	2	0	1.17
Cotts	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00

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Cuts...Breakout Candidate...Notes

2009-03-17T21:43:00.003-05:00

Right-handers Mitch Atkins, Jeff Stevens, and Justin Berg were optioned to Triple-A Iowa. Right-hander Marcos Mateo was optioned to Double-A Tennessee. Five non-roster invitees were assigned to the Minor League camp: C Welington Castillo; IFs Darwin Barney and Luis Rivas; and OFs Doug Deeds and Jason Dubois. The roster now is 45 players, including 22 pitchers, four catchers, 10 infielders, and nine outfielders.
--------------------------------
Some of my breakout candidates are (in no order):

Elijah Dukes OF, Nats
Adam Jones OF, O's
Cameron Maybin OF, Marlins
Alex Gordon 3B, Royals
Chris Davis 1B/3B, Rangers
Jose Lopez 2B, M's
Sean Marshall/Aaron Heilman SP, DA CUBS
Oliver Perez SP, Mets (Finally hit his potential consistency)
Carlos Zambrano SP, Cubs (will realize his ability to break 18 wins)
Jay Bruce OF, Reds

----------------------------------
NOTES:

Carlos Zambrano second-favorite team is the White Sox.
Corey Koskie will start every other day for the rest of Spring Training at 3B.
Joey Gathright has picked up some grillz. He missed Tuesday's game duo to a Dentist apartment.
Fischer Price (Milton Bradley) still has the flu.
Derrek Lee has a tight quad, and is day-to-day.
Possibly with confirmation, the Cubs are set to retire the #31 for Greg Maddux and Ferguson Jenkins.

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Spring Training...Cub History...

2009-03-16T20:14:00.002-05:00

PART I

Spring training so far has been normal, with no controversy. The Cubs have been around .500, with the underrated pitchers and position player performing best. There could be some surprises in that bullpen as well as that bench.

Lou has been fairly quite, unless he's talking about reading books (honestly, I don't care,) but Lou is Lou and he'll do or see what he wants cause his legacy is still intact.

I'm really pulling for two players this spring (well, every player, but you know what I mine) in Jose Ascanio and Kevin Gregg. I believe and thing Gregg deserves that closers spot so Marmol can keep the position as the best set-up man is baseball. Jose Ascanio is a best and I really hope he gets a shot, because in my eyes, he's the next Carlos Marmol or Jose Ceda.

Stay turned for PART II.

This day is Cubs history:

On This date in 1984, A judge in Illinios rules state laws prohibiting night baseball at Wrigley are Constitutional. The Chicago Cubs had previously sued to have the laws overturned after MLB took away ONE of the Cubs HOME games during the 1984 NLCS.

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Week Ahead...Cubs Win.....

2009-03-15T22:36:00.002-05:00

Monday: My spring training notes, this day in Cub history, and cuts.
Tuesday: 2009 break out candidates (around the majors.)
Wednesday: What's with Lou lately?
Thursday: Team USA update, closer discussion.
Friday: Cubs vs Padres recap (on WGN/MLBN.)
Saturday: Talkin' Baseball recap.
Sunday: The position players/starting pitchers/closer roles announced?

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	3	0	0	0	0	4	3	10	14	1
Arizona	0	0	3	0	0	1	0	0	3	7	9	1

HR: Hoffpauir, Snyder, Fontenot, and Castillo W.
SB: Gathright 3.
Att: 11,455.
MVP: The Cub hitters.
LVP: Ascanio for giving up 3 runs in .2 innings.

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3/14 Line-up....Cub blogs Weigh In.....Notes...

2009-03-14T12:40:00.003-05:00

Aaron Heilman will get the start Saturday for the Cubs vs. the Angels.
The lineup is:
LF Alfonso Soriano
SS Andres Blanco
1B Derrek Lee
RF Milton Bradley
3B Aramis Ramirez
CF Reed Johnson
2B Esteban German
C Paul Bako
SP Aaron Heilman
The game will be broadcast on WGN TV and WGN Radio.

Cub Blogs Weigh In:
Radio recaps from the Waddle and Silvy with Mike Fontenot and Mully and Hanley on ESPN 1000 With "The Shark"-Chicago Cubs Blog

According to Hot Stove Cubbies; David Kaplan the White Sox offered Nick Swisher for Fukudome this off season. AND Bullpen wildcards.-Hot Stove Cubbies

Bobby Crosby Updates.-Cubs Corner

Yu Darvish Reactions, with Cub player insight's.-MLBTR
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

According to Bruce Levine, Jose Ascanio's stock is rising while Chad Gaudin's is falling.
Aaron Miles is not expected to play for the next few days due to a sore shoulder.
Mike Fontenot will be the opening day starter-Bruce Miles
Carlos Zambrano denied the rumors if him playing in the WBC for Team Venezuela in the second round.
Carlos Marmol should return to the Cubs pitching line-up in todays game.

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Sleeper Candidates for Cubs in 09'....Cub Notes...

2009-03-14T10:50:00.003-05:00

Logan Watkins, 2B, Chicago Cubs
I really love RHP Jay Jackson, but I've mentioned him before and figured someone more obscure would be more interesting for you. One option is Logan Watkins, drafted in the 21^st round last year out of high school in Goddard, Kansas. Watkins would have gone much higher than the 21^st round but teams were scared off by a Wichita State scholarship. The Cubs signed him for $500,000, then he hit .325/.462/.363 in rookie ball. A terrific athlete, Watkins is a left-handed hitter with excellent strike zone judgment, but lacks power right now. It's also unclear where he fits with the glove. . .there has been talk about him as both a center fielder and shortstop. We need more information here, but Watkins certainly bears close watching going forward.-Thank you minorleaguebaseball.com.

Cub Notes:

Non-roster invitees J.R. Mathes, Brian Schlitter, Matt Smith and Steve Clevenger were all assigned to minor league camp. The Cubs optioned Richie Robnett to Triple-A Iowa.
53 players are left in big league camp.
Lou Piniella expects the Cubs closer, backup catcher, and 5th starter spots to be named around this time next weekend.
Rich Harden will start against Arizona on Sunday.

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Cubs Sign Esteban German.

2009-03-13T15:12:00.002-05:00

According to a press release from the Cubs, they have signed Esteban German to a minor league deal. He was recently released for the Royals last week after clearing waivers. He's under team control till 2010, as an arbitration year.

Career: Batting
SEASON	TEAM	G	AB	R	H	2B	3B	HR	RBI	BB	SO	SB	CS	AVG	OBP	SLG	OPS
2002	Oak	9	35	4	7	0	0	0	0	4	11	1	0	.200	.300	.200	.500
2003	Oak	5	4	0	1	0	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	.250	.250	.250	.500
2004	Oak	31	60	9	15	1	1	0	7	4	13	0	1	.250	.297	.300	.597
2005	Tex	5	4	3	3	1	0	0	1	0	1	2	0	.750	.750	1.000	1.750
2006	KC	106	279	44	91	18	5	3	34	40	49	7	3	.326	.422	.459	.881
2007	KC	121	348	49	92	15	6	4	37	43	60	11	7	.264	.351	.376	.727
2008	KC	89	216	30	53	14	3	0	22	18	42	7	3	.245	.303	.338	.641
Total	--	366	946	139	262	49	15	7	102	109	177	28	14	.277	.358	.383	.741

Hey if he can hit like he did in 06', why not or even .285+, that would be fine. Is this another Reed Johnson type?

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Big Z get the Nod....

2009-03-12T18:13:00.003-05:00

Five years and counting, Carlos Zambrano will get the nod on opening day. Ryan Dempster with follow, with Ted Lilly going third, Mr.Injury will be fourth (Harden), the fifth spot will be skipped the first time around this season.

Sean Marshall is still considered the front-runner for the fifth spot but Aaron Heilman has been great or even better. I say go with Heilman!

We have a new chat up, so voice your opinion. Coming soon, be prepared, its something new.

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Rooftop Wars.....

2009-03-11T15:23:00.002-05:00

According to CBS.com; The Cubs told the rooftop owners to pay up or be blocked. The Cubs filed a breach of contract lawsuit in federal court Tuesday seeking to prohibit Anthony Racky from operating the Lakeview Baseball Club he owns at 3633 N. Sheffield Ave. until Racky shares 17 percent of his 2008 profits with the team.

Racky has been withholding the 2008 payment to protest a Jumbotron that, he claims, blocked half his view during the NHL's New Year's Day Winter Classic.

The rooftop sold out for the game between the Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings. But club attorney Paul Bauch has contended that fans who had trouble seeing the rink would have to be given a future discount or freebie and the Cubs should pay for it. He also wants the Cubs to promise there will be no future obstructions.

Until those conditions are met, Racky has said he intents to withhold the 2008 payment.

"We can't let one rooftop not pay. It wouldn't be fair to the other rooftops -- nor to us," said Mike Lufrano, vice president of community relations for the Cubs.

Lufrano was asked if the Cubs were prepared to block Racky's mid-block view if he hasn't paid up by Opening Day. "We hope it doesn't come to that. We hope we'll be able to resolve it," he said.

Other sources said an obstruction is planned and that it would probably be "some sort of louver, slat or blind" to block Racky's view, but not interference with the rooftops on either side.

Curiosity of Cbs2chicago.com

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Cubs Beat M's...Cub Notes....

2009-03-10T18:14:00.002-05:00

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	0	5	0	0	3	0	0	8	16	1
Seattle	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	1	6	1

Today the hitting was magnificent, with Miles, Deeds, and K Hill all having multi-hit games.

MVP: The pitching staff.
LVP: Reed Johnson who has struggled with a .231 batting average.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Harden	2.0	2	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Dempster (W, 1-2)	3.0	2	0	0	0	2	0	2.25
Heilman	3.0	2	1	1	0	5	0	1.13
Ascanio	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00

Cub Notes:

Lou has told Kosuke Fukudome that he'll most likely hit second this year for the Cubs. I think this is good because if Kosuke plays almost everyday, he'll have over 100 walks which would be surprising for a 2-hole hitter.
Cubs will play team Japan on Thursday at Hohokam park. Big Z is slated to start for the Cubs.
Corey Koskie is expected to join the team on Thursday.
Lou will choose between Dempster and Zambrano for opening day by the end of the week.
Ted Lilly will pitch for Team USA on Wednesday.

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 Comments Causing a Stir.

2009-03-10T17:35:00.001-05:00

Thanks to MLBTradeRumors.com for the info.

Here's what he said;

"My agent was saying that Jon Daniels was telling him, 'There are days when he doesn’t want to play because of his health.' Well, you can get a healthy guy to go out there and play 162 games, but he won’t do what I did in 120."

The comment was "crudely self-serving" but "mostly right" given his production last year. Worse, though, Bradley seemed to admit to prioritizing his stats:

"If I'm being paid, and I've got the commitment to me that I give to them, you make more of an effort to be out there every day. When you're on one-year deals constantly, you've got to put up as good numbers as you can. When you have days where you’re not feeling like you can contribute, you're not going to go out there, because you’re not going to want your numbers to suck. So, if you're in a situation like I am now, if they want me to go out there when I'm feeling a little banged up, I've got no problem doing that because they've made the commitment to me." (Major props to Tim Dierkes.)

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 Finally Win...

2009-03-09T17:43:00.002-05:00

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Kansas City	0	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	4	1
Chi Cubs	1	3	0	1	0	0	1	3	X	9	12	0

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	4	1	1	2	0	0	1	.167
Taguchi, LF	1	0	1	3	0	0	0	.250
Fontenot, 2B	3	2	2	2	1	0	0	.367
Rivas, L, 2B	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.211
Lee, 1B	4	0	1	1	0	0	1	.211
Snyder, RF	1	0	0	0	0	1	1	.250
Bradley, DH	3	0	0	0	1	0	1	.273
Ramirez, A, 3B	3	0	1	0	0	0	1	.318
Blanco, A, SS	1	0	0	0	0	1	0	.176
Hoffpauir, RF-1B	4	1	2	0	0	2	2	.324
Miles, SS-3B	3	1	1	0	0	0	3	.222
Bako, C	4	1	2	0	0	0	1	.200
Gathright, CF	3	3	1	1	1	1	1	.333
Totals	35	9	12	9	3	5	13

BATTING
2B: Lee, Fontenot, Hoffpauir
3B: Taguchi
HR: Soriano and Fontenot

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Gaudin (W, 2-0)	2.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	5.14
Samardzija	3.0	2	1	1	0	2	0	6.75
Gregg	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Waddell	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	1.50
Caridad	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Wells, R	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00

Att: 8,987
Umpires: HP: Kerwin Danley. 1B: Chris Tiller. 2B: . 3B: Doug Eddings.
Weather: 69 degrees, sunny.
Wind: 10 mph, Out to LF.

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

Jake Peavy Suitor Emerges.

2009-03-09T14:34:00.004-05:00

Jake Peavy recently told Rod Bradford of WEEI;

"Boston was a place that I told the Padres I would certainly be interested in playing. I don’t know if there were any talks. I gave the Padres a list and Boston was on that list. Boston was a place I told the Padres I would be interested in playing at. Set that straight for sure."

Yes I think Jake is interested, but is Boston? They have Beckett, Dice-K, and Lester anchoring that rotation with John Smoltz, Brad Penny, Clay Buchholz, Micheal Bowden, and Tim Wakefield vying for that 4th and 5th spot. The Red Sox have an amazing farm system, but there not gonna want a blow to there farm for a starting pitcher, when there most likely problem would br offense. You might be thinking, they have Bay, Ortiz, Pedroia! Well Ortiz will have declined numbers with the absence of Manny. Drew will be injured (duo to his back). Jason Bay and Dustin Pedroia had amazing years, but one hast to think that they can't do any better and will fall off those lines. BUT don't get me wrong that have a good line-up, but if they need help it will most likely be either C, CF, RF, 3B, or even DH.

AND the Padres will want Lars Anderson 1B or Michael Bowden RHP anchored in a deal. We all know Lars is the best 1B prospect in the game, but if the Padres are content with Adrian, then the Padres Might want Micheal Bowden and Michael Almanzar. AND the Red Sox have Beckett who is already questioned with injury and they don't want a possible two.

Tell me what you guys think? What prospects the Padres would want from the Sox? Is it possible?

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 Again.

2009-03-08T19:08:00.002-05:00

Don't worry it's just spring training, but it's now 6 in a row.

Cubs 2 Rangers 7
WP - Derek Holland (1-0) LP - Chad Fox (0-1)

Today's game is the first game not decided by two or less. But anyways Marshall looked great, the Cubs wont go wrong with either Heilman or Marshall.

Sean Marshall pitched four shutout innings, strucking out three, no walks, and surrendered only two hits. Marshall faced the minimum number of batters through three and pitched ahead in the count most of his outing. Marshall left with a 2-0 lead, but the Cubs bullpen could not hold it.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Peavy Notes...Cubs....

2009-03-07T09:52:00.004-06:00

According to Karl Ravech from Baseball Tonight (9:00AM, NEW due to WBC) he expects the Cubs to restart the Peavy talks or for another player during the season. He expects the Cubs do something this year in the playoffs, the Cubs were in his top 5 storylines on the Major League Season.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cub Notes....

2009-03-07T09:26:00.002-06:00

The Cubs have lost 4 games in a row. Big Z will try to change that today against the Brewers at 2:05 CT on WGN-TV.

Milton Bradley will play about every other game in the spring.
Rich Harden threw 43 pitches in a simulated game and could make his first Cactus League start on Tuesday vs. Seattle.
The Cubs have have re-assigned pitchers Andrew Cashner, Rocky Roquet and Ed Campusano to the Minor League camp, they now have 57 players in camp.
Team USA will play today VS Canada.
Ken Rosenthal says that the new ownership pf the Cubs may not be willing/able to add Jake Peavy's contract.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cub Notes...

2009-03-05T20:34:00.002-06:00

Kosuke Fukudome didn't have an official AB, he had 4 walks.
Cubs lost to the White Sox twice in Vegas.
Aaron Heilman has look incredible this spring.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cub Rumors

2009-03-04T21:12:00.003-06:00

Cubs loss to the Indians 5 to 4. Bradley returns and goes 1-3 with a double.
Cub scouts have been monitoring Bobby Crosby for the A's, who is owed 5.25 million dollars this year in his contract year. Crosby has come out and say he wants to start everyday, but he won't in Oakland due to the arrivals of Nomar "Nomah" Garciaparra and Orlando Cabrera. But one source familiar with the Cubs thinking said there's nothing to the rumor.
Joe Beimel has been rumored to be on the Cubs radar, due to his price falling significantly.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

ARAM Want's to finish a Cub....Josh Vitters

2009-03-04T15:03:00.003-06:00

According to Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune; Aramis Ramirez want's to finish his career as a Chicago Cub. Here's what he said:

"I'd like to end my career here. I feel good here. I knew there was going to be a lot of money on the market, but I didn't want to go anywhere. I just want to stay here with the Cubs."

So presuming that Aramis Ramirez stays a Cub for the indefinite future, does it mean that we can trade away Josh Vitter's? What do you think?

If we can trade Josh Vitter's for someone who can help us now, why not.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs VS A's...Stats...

2009-03-03T17:32:00.002-06:00

Cubs 6 A's 4.

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	3	1	1	1	0	0	1	.222
Stanton, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Vizcaino, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
b-Dubois, PH	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.143
Cashner, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Cotts, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Wells, R, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Caridad, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Theriot, SS	2	2	0	0	1	0	0	.500
Barney, SS	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.125
Ramirez, A, 3B	3	1	1	3	0	1	1	.111
Rivas, L, 3B	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.364
Fox, J, 1B	4	1	2	2	0	1	0	.438
Robnett, RF	3	0	0	0	1	1	1	.091
Johnson, R, CF	3	0	1	0	0	0	1	.273
Fuld, CF	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.375
Bako, C	2	0	0	0	1	0	3	.000
Castillo, W, C	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Blanco, A, 2B	3	0	1	0	0	0	0	.300
Marshall, P	1	0	0	0	0	0	2	.000
Gregg, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
a-Taguchi, PH-LF	1	1	0	0	1	0	0	.000
Totals	30	6	6	6	4	3	9

a-Walked for Gregg in the 4th. b-Grounded out for Vizcaino in the 6th.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Marshall (W, 1-0)	3.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	1.80
Gregg (H, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Stanton	1.0	3	2	2	1	0	0	9.00
Vizcaino	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Cashner	0.1	3	2	2	1	0	0	54.00
Cotts (H, 1)	0.2	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Wells, R (H, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Caridad (S, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	1	1	0	0.00

Marshall and Heilman have both look pretty good this spring training, it's safe to say that there "competition."

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Peavy, Part XLIII

2009-03-02T06:31:00.002-06:00

Even though the Cubs haven t started the talks with the Padres about there Ace Jake Peavy since the winter meetings, it could still be resurrected. But Peavy is still high on the Cubs according to the Chicago Tribune.

As from the beginning, the Padres cant afford the 63 million dollar contract for Jake Peavy.

Here's what he had to say:
"Obviously, Chicago was a team that I did have an interest in playing for, and I respect [general manager] Jim Hendry and the organization," he said. "I respect a lot of the players they have and feel like they have a good bunch, and obviously [it's] a great city. [Those] were reasons I identified the Cubs as a team I wanted to be a part of if I had to move on from San Diego."

"Other than doing that, I just let the guys making the decisions make them. I have no idea [what will happen]. I know I'm here and I have to prepare like I'm a San Diego Padre."

Major props to ChicagoCubsonline.com.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

CUBS PODCAST...

2009-03-01T21:22:00.003-06:00

Here is my first podcast is below, so please listen and tell me what you think. Make sure you wait because it will start about 20 seconds in after you press play. This is obviously my first recording, and I was a little nervous (I had to use my phone today, but I will get a headset next week.) For some reason I'd move my phone away from my mouth, and that's the reason for the break-ups. Make sure your volume is up on your speakers and on the widget box.

I went straight from gut (I had no notes,) It'll be a little more fluent and better next week.

Thanks for listening!

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Peavy, Pads Give the Cubs There First Loss.

2009-03-01T18:08:00.003-06:00

Today the Cubs lost to the Padres 4 to 2, in a bad defensive game. While Dempster look shaky, but the defense didn't help him in the first two innings. While Mike Fontenot and Ryan Theriot had multi-hit games.

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
Chi Cubs	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0	0	2	6	3
San Diego	3	0	0	0	1	0	0	0	X	4	7	0

Theriot and Fontenot were the only noticeable starters, I'll have full player and pitcher stats after the game tomorrow.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Blog News..

2009-03-01T11:19:00.002-06:00

I have decided not to have a chat on my blog for the indefinite future, for the following reasons; other fellow Cub blogs are having a chat, there are so many chats, that there's one on every day of the week. I was the the first blogger (of the Cub Blogs I follow) to have a chat, and only one fellow blogger had the courtesy to ask if it would be alright.

So that is the reason for the cancellation of the Chat, sorry all you Cub fans. I'll try and think of something new.

If any of you guys have an idea for something new, just leave a comment. Also NO more word verification for commenting.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Beat White Sox...Stats....

2009-02-28T17:12:00.003-06:00

Cubs 13 White Sox 0

The pitching staff was amazing, take a look:

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Heilman	2.0	1	0	0	0	4	0	0.00
Gregg	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Cotts (W, 1-0)	1.0	1	0	0	1	0	0	0.00
Patton	2.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	0.00
Kadokura	1.0	1	0	0	1	1	0	0.00
Waddell	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Caridad	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0.00

Brad Snyder hit a grad slam in the 7th. While Hoffpauir, Fuld, Snyder, and Scales all had multi hit games.

MVP: Brad Snyder for hitting a grand slam in a 9-run 7th.
LVP- Alfonso Soriano for going 0-2 with 2 strikeouts.

Don't forget the other posts below, it's been a busy day.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Marmol has Change of Mind, Will Pitch in WBC...

2009-02-28T14:44:00.002-06:00

Marmol has changed his mind and will pitch in the WBC, according to the Sun-Times. He changed his mind on Saturday and will leave camp on Tuesday.

It's fine with me, because he'll get every chance to pitch as the closer. I just wished he didn't flip-flop so many times.

Make sure you read the post below, it's been a busy day.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Curt Schilling Wants to Play for Cubs.

2009-02-28T13:41:00.003-06:00

Reports from the Orlando Sentinel; Curt Schilling has broken one curse in Boston, but now he wants to come to Chicago to break our curse. But he said he would be interested in coming back to baseball to pitch for either the Chicago Cubs or the Tampa Bay Rays.

Schilling who is 216-146, said that money wouldn't be a major issue. He's looking for a team that has championship potential and has never won a title. "The challenge would be in a place like Tampa Bay or Chicago," he said.

Schilling isn't aiming for an opening day roster spot, but isn't a 100% sure if he wants to pitch at all. "I'll make a decision in the next couple of weeks" he said.

SEASON	TEAM	G	GS	CG	SHO	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	SO	W	L	SV	HLD	BLSV	ERA
1988	Bal	4	4	0	0	14.2	22	19	16	3	10	4	0	3	0	0	--	9.82
1989	Bal	5	1	0	0	8.2	10	6	6	2	3	6	0	1	0	0	--	6.23
1990	Bal	35	0	0	0	46.0	38	13	13	1	19	32	1	2	3	0	--	2.54
1991	Hou	56	0	0	0	75.2	79	35	32	2	39	71	3	5	8	0	--	3.81
1992	Phi	42	26	10	4	226.1	165	67	59	11	59	147	14	11	2	0	--	2.35
1993	Phi	34	34	7	2	235.1	234	114	105	23	57	186	16	7	0	0	--	4.02
1994	Phi	13	13	1	0	82.1	87	42	41	10	28	58	2	8	0	0	--	4.48
1995	Phi	17	17	1	0	116.0	96	52	46	12	26	114	7	5	0	0	--	3.57
1996	Phi	26	26	8	2	183.1	149	69	65	16	50	182	9	10	0	0	--	3.19
1997	Phi	35	35	7	2	254.1	208	96	84	25	58	319	17	11	0	0	--	2.97
1998	Phi	35	35	15	2	268.2	236	101	97	23	61	300	15	14	0	0	--	3.25
1999	Phi	24	24	8	1	180.1	159	74	71	25	44	152	15	6	0	0	--	3.54
2000	Phi	16	16	4	1	112.2	110	49	49	17	32	96	6	6	0	0	--	3.91
2000	Ari	13	13	4	1	97.2	94	41	40	10	13	72	5	6	0	0	--	3.69
2000	--	29	29	8	2	210.1	204	90	89	27	45	168	11	12	0	0	--	3.81
2001	Ari	35	35	6	1	256.2	237	86	85	37	39	293	22	6	0	0	--	2.98
2002	Ari	36	35	5	1	259.1	218	95	93	29	33	316	23	7	0	0	--	3.23
2003	Ari	24	24	3	2	168.0	144	58	55	17	32	194	8	9	0	0	--	2.95
2004	Bos	32	32	3	0	226.2	206	84	82	23	35	203	21	6	0	0	--	3.26
2005	Bos	32	11	0	0	93.1	121	59	59	12	22	87	8	8	9	0	2	5.69
2006	Bos	31	31	0	0	204.0	220	90	90	28	28	183	15	7	0	0	--	3.97
2007	Bos	24	24	1	1	151.0	165	68	65	21	23	101	9	8	0	0	--	3.87
Total	--	569	436	83	20	3261.0	2998	1318	1253	347	711	3116	216	146	22	0	-11	3.46

To me he is a low-risk-high reward type player, and if he doesn't do so good, we have other options. He could also serve as a coach to the young pitchers on the team, and plus, have you seen this guy in the post-season?

What do you fans think?

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Sign Corey Koskie... Notes

2009-02-28T12:57:00.002-06:00

The Cubs agreed to sign Corey Koskie to a minor league deal. He'll compete for a backup job with the Cubs this spring. Koskie, who will be in the WBC will miss some time with the Cubs. Corey will take his physical and report to Spring Training after the WBC.

Watch the replay of the Chat (below this post.)

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

CHAT Today @ NOON.

2009-02-28T08:53:00.003-06:00

There will be a chat here at noon, so be here. I will have the chat available at 11:00am, so you can start sending in the questions then.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Win! Stats and News...

2009-02-27T17:21:00.002-06:00

Cubs 10 Rangers 4

In today's Cactus League game against the Rangers the Cubs won. While Hoffpauir, Fontenot, and Sam Fuld all hit home runs. The Cubs rattled up 14 hits, while 5 players had a multi hit game.

Ted Lilly was the only noticeable starter (as for pitching) in the game, and he did good.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Lilly (W, 1-0)	2.0	2	0	0	0	2	0	0.00

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs VS Brewers Stats, Recap, and News...

2009-02-26T17:23:00.002-06:00

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Gathright, CF	3	1	3	1	1	0	0	1.000
Stanton, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Hart, K, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
b-Taguchi, PH	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.000
Fox, C, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Guzman, A, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Miles, 2B	4	0	1	1	0	1	3	.250
Fuld, CF	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Bradley, RF	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.000
1-Robnett, PR-RF	2	0	1	1	1	0	2	.250
Ramirez, A, 3B	1	0	0	0	1	1	2	.000
2-Scales, PR-3B	2	1	0	1	1	0	3	.250
Hoffpauir, LF-1B	4	1	1	0	1	1	4	.250
Fox, J, 1B	3	1	2	3	1	0	3	.400
3-Snyder, PR-LF	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.000
Bako, C	3	0	0	0	0	0	3	.000
Marmol, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Blanco, A, 2B	1	0	0	0	1	0	1	.000
Barney, SS	5	1	1	0	0	0	3	.167
Marshall, P	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
a-Clevenger, PH	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.000
Gaudin, P	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	1.000
Castillo, W, C	2	2	0	0	1	1	1	.000
Totals	33	7	10	7	11	4	26

a-Walked for Marshall in the 2nd.
b-Flied out for Hart, K in the 7th.
1-Ran for Bradley in the 1st.
2-Ran for Ramirez, A in the 3rd.
3-Ran for Fox, J in the 6th.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Marshall	2.0	4	1	1	0	1	0	4.50
Gaudin (W, 1-0)	2.0	3	1	1	1	1	1	4.50
Marmol (H, 1)	1.0	1	1	1	0	0	0	9.00
Stanton (H, 1)	1.0	2	1	1	1	2	1	9.00
Hart, K (H, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Fox, C (H, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Guzman, A (S, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0.00

MVP: Jake Fox for hitting a 3-Run homer in the third inning off Seth McClung.
LVP: Paul Bako for going 0-3 while leaving 3 on-base.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Say It Aint so...Bradley HURT...

2009-02-26T16:32:00.004-06:00

During Milton Bradley's first Cactus League games he took himself out because of Quad tightness.

But don't worry, he's expected to be back in the lineup this weekend. At least Bradley knows when he needs to take himself out of the games. I'll keep you posted on this.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

1st Game is a WIN! Box Score.....

2009-02-25T17:47:00.002-06:00

At Hohokam park in Mesa Arizona where the weather was 80 degrees and blowing out to LF with 6 MPH winds and an attendance of 7,916. The Chicago Cubs won 5-3.

Chi Cubs	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Soriano, LF	1	1	1	0	1	0	0	1.000
Snyder, LF	1	1	0	0	1	1	1	.000
Theriot, SS	3	0	2	0	0	0	2	.667
2-Barney, PR-SS	1	1	0	0	0	0	1	.000
Lee, 1B	1	0	0	0	1	1	2	.000
Fox, J, 1B	2	1	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Hoffpauir, DH	4	1	1	4	0	1	4	.250
Soto, C	2	0	1	0	0	1	1	.500
1-Fuld, PR-CF	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Fontenot, 2B	3	0	0	0	0	0	1	.000
Blanco, A, 2B	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Johnson, R, CF	2	0	1	0	0	1	0	.500
Deeds, D, RF	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
a-Dubois, PH	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.000
3-Taguchi, PR-RF	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.000
Robnett, RF	2	0	0	0	0	0	2	.000
Hill, K, C	2	0	0	0	0	1	1	.000
Scales, 3B	2	0	1	0	0	0	2	.500
Rivas, L, 3B	2	0	1	0	0	0	1	.500
Totals	32	5	8	4	4	6	18
a-Walked for Deeds, D in the 8th. 1-Ran for Soto in the 4th. 2-Ran for Theriot in the 5th. 3-Ran for Dubois in the 8th.

Chi Cubs	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Samardzija	2.0	3	2	2	2	1	0	9.00
Atkins	2.0	3	1	1	0	1	0	4.50
Kadokura (W, 1-0)	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Patton (H, 1)	1.0	2	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Caridad (H, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Waddell (H, 1)	1.0	0	0	0	1	2	0	0.00
Stevens (S, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	1	1	0	0.00

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Happy Birthday.....Notes....

2009-02-25T15:23:00.005-06:00

I'd like to wish Ron Santo and Bob Brenly a magical happy birthday on the Cubs first Cactus League game of the season.

Ron Santo is 69! And he is working in the radio booth today.

Bob Brenly is 55 years young, and has the night off.

Did you know the Cubs and Dodgers have split their first 2,024 regular season meetings since their first game in 1890. Each team has won 1,012 games in the series.-Cubs.com beat reporter Carrie Muskat.

I also like to wish Joe Borowski a wonderful retirement! He had a great year for the Cubs in 2003, and pitched in 12 big league seasons with Baltimore, Atlanta, Yankees, Cubs, Tampa Bay, Florida and Cleveland along the way. He finishes with a 4.18 career ERA and 131 saves, leaving him 80th on the all-time list.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Spring Training News....

2009-02-23T14:26:00.003-06:00

Ryan Dempster hasn't been throwing to batters because he has a stiff neck.
Monday was the last day at Fitch Park. They will practice on Tuesday at HoHoKam Stadium.
BREAKING NEWS: Carlos Marmol has decided to not pitch in the WBC.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Spring Training Notes......

2009-02-21T14:39:00.006-06:00

Carlos Zambrano Threw to live batters on Saturday morning.
Alfonso Soriano is planning to have a great upcoming season. Also, Soriano worked out this offseason for the first time in his career.
According to the Sun-Times, Jeff Samardzija will start the Cactus league season.
Bruce Levine has been told the the sale of the Cubs will be finalized in mid-to end April of Early May.
Update: Sean Marshall and Ted Lilly will follow Jeff Samardija in the Cactus League.
Each of the starters will get about 27-28 innings of work.
Carlos Marmol is still undecided about the WBC.
BREAKING NEWS: Kosuke Fukudome hit a grand slam in an exhibition game against the Tokyo Giants (just an interesting tidbit.)

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Chat Today

2009-02-21T09:12:00.002-06:00

CHAT today at noon. Start sending questions in around 30 minutes before it starts.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Notes.......

2009-02-19T19:43:00.005-06:00

The Cubs have been approached by teams about Kosuke Fukudome, a major league source said. The Mariners were one of those teams interested and said to be offering guys like Washburn, Johjima, and Bedard. Bedard is owed 7.75M in 09' (but the Cubs have no interest in trading Fukudome.)

Rick Sutcliffe will be guest instructor for the Cubs until he goes and coaches in the WBC.
According to Lou, Soriano will be the opening day lead-off batter, but will try him out in other spots in the lineup during spring training.
The Players were asked if they'd want Manny on the Cubs, and they all said yes. Even Soriano said he'd move back to second base for the games most feared slugger.

UPDATE:

Carlos Marmol MAY skip the WBC.
Soriano is telling people that he will steal more (40-40-40 year for Soriano?)
Orlando Hudson will not be a Cub because he signed with the Dodgers. Also that means no Mark Teahen.
Lou possibly wants Bradley to be the clean-up hitter.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

A Nomar Garciaparra Birthday

2009-02-18T01:08:00.005-06:00

What's that you say? Happy birthday, Matt? That's right! And what is it exactly I want for the big 2-1? A return to the Cubs for the once chosen one, the shy town savior, the Windy City Warrior..Nomar Garciaparra.

The Cubs currently have one open position left and it is for a backup corner infielder to keep Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez fresh. Currently, it seems the Cubs are comfortable with Aaron Miles and Mike Fontenot rotating in and out of the second and third base positions. How ludicrous is that for continuity..

Mark DeRosa filled the utility handyman role just nicely, providing an electric bat with just enough range on his glove to play everywhere on the field. Sound familair?

Fonty and Miles will not be DeRosa. They'll do a serviceable job, don't minsunderstand. Just know that the Cubs need a veteran backup to play this roles. Does that sound familiar too?

Nomar is currently a free agent deserving of a job somewhere. The only reason he has yet found one is that he is holding out for a starting position. He has yet to find one because he is coming off an injury riddled season where he hit .264 in only 55 games played.

I theorize that limiting a healthy Nomar Garciaparra to a platoon-backup role would be best for not only the Cubs, but Nomar's career. If he would take the one-year incentive-laden deal from the Cubs, he could fill the role he was very successful at near the end of 2005 where he covered for the injured Ramirez and inconsistent Ronny Cedeno.

I'm convinced that Nomar would be a veteran glue to a clubhouse that may not have a leader with the departures of DeRosa and Kerry Wood. In addition, limiting Nomar to 300 at bats would allow in to stay on the field for a full season, maximizing his value.

Plus we'll get Mia Hamm back in Chicago. Who's opposed to that. Happy birthday indeed...

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, there will be a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Spring Training News.........

2009-02-16T10:04:00.007-06:00

Anything new will be posted here:

Rich Harden threw about 20 pitches off the mound on Sunday at Fitch Park.
Carlos shaved the mustache.
Orlando Hudson might sign soon, some of the teams with interest White Sox, Dodgers, and the Cubs.

UPDATE: Lou said Monday he may drop the left fielder (Alfonso Soriano) down in the order.

Chad Gaudin has a crazy long beard (just a fun fact.)
Here's an interesting link from former Minnesota Governor and Professional wrestler (and former anabolic steroid user;) who talks about how Commissioner of MLB should be punished like the former WWF CEO. Click here for the link.

UPDATE February 17:

Derrek Lee will not play in the WBC, unless Kevin Youkilis gets injured.
Everybody has reported to camp, (even Luis Vizcaino who cleared up his visa problems) besides Kosuke Fukudome (who is training for the WBC in Japen.)
Derrek Lee is open to batting anywhere.
NOTHING new of Orlando Hudson, "HotStoveCubbies" says the Cubs and Dbacks could do a new sign-and-trade. Jon Heyman has been reporting that the White Sox are not in it.
Ted Lilly is expected to play for Team USA in the WBC.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Spring Training Notes and News.....

2009-02-14T14:19:00.005-06:00

When ever anything new comes up, it'll be posted here:

Cubs Pitcher Rich Harden said "I'm coming of the best offseason ever." And he hopes to make 30 starts this year.
Marmol is expected to be the Dominican Republic team's closer. He's not worried about being overused. "The innings I don't pitch in Spring Training are innings I will pitch there," Marmol said.
DAY 2, IN MESA
Paul Bako and Koyie Hill will compete for the backup catcher's job. Cubs staff liked throwing to Hill last year better than they did Henry Blanco. The Cubs can release Paul Bako by the end of March and only pay 20% of 750,000.
Sean Marshall is the favorite to win the 5th spot competition-Indicated by Lou.
MILTON BRADLEY has arrived in Mesa and is already taking batting practice. Position players don't have to report till Tuesday.
The only pitcher missing is Luis Vizcaino, who is having visa problems.
Mike Stanton could be the other lefty in the pen along with Neil Cotts.
Reed Johnson lost 14 pounds on his new diet.

Don't Forget, every Saturday @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson

Cubs Chat

2009-02-14T11:32:00.000-06:00

CCB Chat

Notes...CHAT Today

2009-02-14T09:59:00.002-06:00

Here are some notes from Mesa Arizona regarding the Cubs:

Big Z will pass on the WBC, while his shoulder feels strong. Z's eye is now infected and will have to wait till the end of spring training to get the LASIK surgery.
Angel Guzman will also pass on the WBC.
Soriano will be the lead-off hitter, unless someone is brought in.
Dempster is here, but is in hiding.
Lou will try new tactics to motivate the team, and will rest more players this year.

Don't Forget today @ Noon, I will have a Chat on this very website.

This story was approved by Chicago Cubs Blog-Phil Wilson