Chicago Cubs Struggled on Thursday

Thursday at Wrigley Field will be looked back upon in October.  Cubs’ fans will either see it as a hiccup against division rival Milwaukee, or they will see it as a turning point where things started to go south. 

Thursday at Wrigley Field showed plenty of reasons why the Cubs aren't a championship caliber team just yet.

Whether it is questions towards the top of the order or a closer who is unable to shut the door, the Cubs have missing pieces.  If the Cubs are going to end their championship drought this season, many things are going to have to change.

Many Cubs’ fans have a problem with Alfonso Soriano, and today one problem stuck out more than any for them regarding the overpaid .164 hitter. 

Does Lou Piniella manage this team or does Alfonso?  During Piniella's post game news conference, he made it seem as if he wanted to take Soriano defensively, but chose not to. 

We also heard all spring about the reason why Soriano possibly could not bat lead off this season from Lou.  Too bad on Thursday, his 0-4 day was leading off.  

I would have no problem with Soriano in the Cubs’ lineup if he batted down in the order.  He would be an ideal No. 5 hitter, especially with his career slugging percentage. 

Batting fifth, I would be able to tolerate his lack of ability to lay off pitches out of the strike zone.  I am unable to do so while Soriano is leading off.  

Let's not even talk about Soriano's defensive ability.  A strong arm sure but as shown today he can't field to save his life.

Soriano is not the only problem with this Cubs’ team.  Their bullpen is a giant question mark.  Kerry Wood has shown that he lacks the ability to consistently save games, but what can be done for the Cubs’ closing situation? 

Before a change is made I have to believe that Bob Howry needs to show signs of improvement.

Everyone's choice is to move Carlos Marmol to the closing role.  Is it more important for the Cubs to have a closer who can end shut down the other team for an inning, or is it more important to have a guy who can bridge the gap from the starter to the closer? 

If you move Marmol to close, the rest of the bullpen could be very much effected.  Personally, I feel the Cubs need to keep Marmol where he is, allowing him to pitch in long relief when it is asked of him. 

Find a closer from within the bullpen.  You don't need great stuff to close games.  You just need the right mindset.  I have to believe there is someone in that bullpen besides Marmol who can do the job.

There are other questions as well for the Cubs with the lack of starting pitching being a main one.  Soriano's struggles along with fielding issues and a weak closer is the reason they lost on Thursday. 

Is it something to expect in the time to come or will it be the exception?  I will hope for the latter but won't be surprised when the troubles continue.