Ladies & Gentlemen : The 2008 Chicago Cubs, Same as the Old!

Last week I wrote a very optimistic column about the Chicago Cubs.  The Cubs had won eight of nine and seemed destine to roll through the National League Central. 

I hadn't been that excited about the Cubs contending since 2004.  I love watching the Cubs win or lose, but this was a feeling that this year truly was special.

But…

Then came this week where the Cubs dropped five or seven, including two of three to that powerhouse called the Washington Nationals. They also capped off with a perfectly orchestrated loss to the rival Brewers 4-3.

Yesterday's loss hopefully was an aberration.  Coupled with the last week of April and first day of May might be a sign of a dark month to come. 

Think June 1999 when the Cubs entered at 27-20 (by the way, they finished 67-95 that year).  It was some dark thoughts indeed.

Some dark thoughts...

The Soriano Effect?  We have heard a lot about the Fukudome Effect on the Chicago Cubs. 

What about the Soriano effect—free swinging Cubs who strike out, hit into double plays, or try to hit homeruns (instead just lazy fly balls to center)—instead of being patient at the plate. 

Only two walks in Soriano's return to his spot at the top of the lineup. 

Also, the defense that he brings to the table isn't exactly bronze glove level—nice play on the fly ball to left in the ninth off the bat of Gabe Kapler (by the way, he was single A manager last year, nice!)

Is Kerry Wood the best closer? I love watching Kerry Wood pitch, and it pains me to attack him.  The last couple of his outings have been awful.  He has blown three of his seven saves last year. 

Would Dempster have gotten a free pass last year? Kerry Wood just seemed completely outmatched or even scared by the Brew Crew yesterday after hitting Craig Counsel (over the hill) with his first pitch.

Counsel is definitely a scary power hitter—almost like a No. 9 hitter in a little league game, who might one day again hit it out of the infield.

The base running of 2006-2007 is back!  Nothing more to say there.  Just watch and learn what might to do.

Where is the clutch hitting?  The Cubs are back to stranding runners.  It is unbelievable how often this team can load the bases or have runners on second and third, and less then two outs and not SCORE! 

As a Cubs’ fan, this is frustrating.

Hopefully, Sweet Lou can turn this around, especially after such a great April (best since '69).  I think he can, but the above thoughts are still circling in my head.