Bleacher Report - Articles by Katelyn Grabarek

In Honor of Greg Maddux and Fergie Jenkins, Cubs Will Retire No. 31

Katelyn Grabarek — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:06:08 -0400

On May 3, the Chicago Cubs will add another number to their list of those retired.

The team announced Wednesday it will retire No. 31 in honor of both Greg Maddux and Fergie Jenkins.

This will be the sixth flag to carry a retired number on the foul poles at Wrigley.

The others include No. 10 (Ron Santo), No. 14 (Ernie Banks), No. 23 (Ryne Sandberg), No. 26 (Billy Williams), and No. 42 (Jackie Robinson, which is retired throughout baseball).

Both Maddux and Jenkins won Cy Young Awards with the Cubs, with Jenkins winning it in 1971 and Maddux in 1992.

Jenkins holds the record for most recorded strikeouts by a Cub with 2,041, and Maddux ranks fifth on the list with 1,305.

Jenkins finished with a record of 284-226, and a 3.34 ERA, while Maddux finished his 23-year career with 355-227 record and a 3.16 ERA.

Maddux retired during the 2008 Winter Meetings and is helping coach the San Diego Padres this spring.

Chicago Cubs: Corked Bat and Steroids? Yes, That's What This World Has Come To

Katelyn Grabarek — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 20:35:24 -0500

He is part of the reason I so loved baseball.

My heart broke when the corked bat incident happened. His career should not have ended this way, however, with his retirement pending after the World Baseball Classic in March, Sammy Sosa's name will only continue to remain known as another one of the steroid guys.

As Mark McGwire continues to be denied entrance into the Hall of Fame, Sosa's chances of making it are slim to none.

There is no doubt in my mind that Sammy Sosa's name is part of those that have yet to be completely released from the Mitchell Report.

While I never put Sosa in the same category as Alex Rodriguez, the man who saved baseball by not using steroids, every kid has their idols and does not want to believe that he would do such a thing.

However, as many of the young adults of our generation have come to realize, our sports superstars were just average guys hyped up on steroids.

My dad used to tell me that Sosa was another one of those guys, but even coming from your dad, who wants to believe it right?

It seems like we can hardly go two months without another name being leaked or hearing more about Barry Bonds' case.

What kind of images are now being sent to the younger generations. They are going to grow up wondering how many of their favorite athletes have used steroids.

It is sad, that my idol most likely used them, I can't imagine the damage it would do to someone much younger than I am.

Bears Fall to Falcons in Thriller

Katelyn Grabarek — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 15:47:22 -0400

The Bears came from behind yet again behind the right arm of Kyle Orton Sunday, but fell just short of claiming the victory.

Just 11 seconds short, in fact. That's all it took for the Falcons to score a field goal and beat the Bears 22-20.

Orton drove the Bears down the field late in the game to score what looked like the game winning touchdown with only 11 seconds left in the game.

Orton completed a 17-yard touchdown pass to Rashid Davis to give the Bears a 20-19 lead.

The Falcons' rookie quarterback, Matt Ryan, looked spectacular again in the game.

Ryan topped off the Falcons' win with a 26-yard pass to Michael Jenkins with less than 11 seconds left in regulation to get the Falcons within field goal range.

Jason Elam sealed the Bears' fate by making a 48-yard field goal with one second remaining to give the Falcons the win.

Next week the Bears (3-3) will host the Vikings (3-3) in a battle of division leaders, before the bye week.

Cubs to Face Dodgers in Round One after Loss to Brewers

Katelyn Grabarek — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 11:04:50 -0400

While Aramis Ramirez couldn't help the Cubs pull out a win Sunday, the Cubs are getting ready to face the Dodgers in the NLDS, which will begin on Wednesday.

Ramirez led off the second inning with a single, then reached third on an error by Prince Fielder, and scored when Ronny Cedeno beat out a double play ball to score the only Cubs run of the game.

The Cubs had a slew of pitchers get work in Sunday's game while the Brewers started C.C. Sabathia in hopes of making it to the playoffs.

Milwaukee's plan worked.

With the win, the Brewers ousted the Mets from the playoffs. They will face the Phillies in the first round.

Bob Howry got the loss after giving up a two-run homer to Ryan Braun in the bottom of the eighth inning.

The Cubs will have two days off before opening the playoffs at home against the Dodgers. Ryan Dempster will start game one.

Dempster gets win, Cubs offense improves

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 12:59:58 -0400

The Cubs picked up their offense against the Nationals Saturday, and Ryan Dempster picked up his 15 win.

Dempster, who converted from a closer to a starter this season is leading the team in wins.

He gave up one run over 7 1/3 innings while striking out four. Dempster is a remarkable 12-2 at home this season.

Aramis Ramirez also contributed greatly to the Cubs win driving in six runs on two three run homers.

In the first three innings the Cubs stranded eight base runners including leaving the bases loaded in the first.

The Cubs will look for their eighth straight series victory on Sunday when they send Rich Harden to the mound to face Jason Bergmann.

Cubs Take Two of Three from Cards, Head to Atlanta

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:30:31 -0400

Jim Edmonds looks like he has turned his season around since coming to Chicago, and it showed this weekend against the Cardinals.

Edmonds hit two home runs in game one and a third in game three, also while playing stellar defense that the Cubs remember from Edmonds' days with the Cardinals.

In game three, Ryan Dempster picked up his 13th win of the season to move his record to 13-4, and taking the team lead in wins.

The Cubs continued to play stellar defense throughout the series. Backup shortstop Ronny Cedeno proved why he should get more playing time, by driving in two runs.

Kerry Wood, who is coming off a nagging blister and a bad back, seemed to return to form this series, but is still not back in the closer role.

It seems like Lou Piniella is keeping his options open for the closer role in case Wood's health continues to deteriorate down the stretch.

The Cubs will send Rich Harden to the mound Tuesday to face the Braves.

After a three-game set in Atlanta the Cubs will head south again to face the Florida Marlins.

Open Mic: My Favorite Cubs of the '90s

Katelyn Grabarek — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 07:12:48 -0400

While I've read many books on the Cubs' history in my life, I thought that when doing this Open Mic, it might be more appropriate to find the best Cubs players from the '90s rather than all-time.

We'll just head around the diamond and take a look at some of my favorite Cubs.

Starting pitcher: Greg Maddux

How can you argue with Maddux's numbers? While Maddux only played for the Cubs for three years in the '90s, he won three Gold Gloves and had some great seasons. In 1992, Maddux went 20-11 throwing four shutouts in his last season of the decade with the Cubs.

Catcher: Joe Girardi

While Girardi only played for the Cubs from 1989-1992, no one can argue with the way he handled a pitching staff. In 1992, Girardi hit .270 while playing with a bad back. Girardi, who is now managing the Yankees, was always known for his ability to call a game.

First Base: Mark Grace

Hands down the Cubs player of the decade. Grace was not a high draft pick in 1985, but turned out to be a diamond in the rough. Beginning in 1991 Grace led the league in putouts for three straight seasons. In 1995 Grace led the league in doubles with 51.

Second Base: Ryne Sandberg

How can anyone argue with a Hall of Famer? Sandberg was one of the premier second baseman of all time. In 1990, he led the league with 40 home runs. That season he also hit .306 and drove in 100 runs. Sandberg also ranks among the Cubs' top five career leaders in many offensive categories.

Third Base: Gary Gaetti

Throughout the '90s, the Cubs struggled to find a steady third baseman, as was the trend until they acquired Aramis Ramirez from the Pirates in 2003. However, no one can forget Gaetti's two run homer that clinched the Cubs' wild card birth into the 1998 playoffs over the Giants. Gaetti batted .320 down the stretch that season in 37 games, including eight home runs and 27 RBI.

Short Stop: Shawon Dunston

Dunston played for the Cubs from 1985-1997. He led all NL shortstops in putouts three times. Dunston had his best year at the plate in 1995 when he batted .296 and drove in 69 runs. In 1988, Dunston led the Cubs with 30 stolen bases and made his only All-Star appearance.

Outfield: Sammy Sosa

How can you argue with this one during the '90s? Sosa came over in 1992. Mostly everyone's fondest memories of Sosa are from the 1998 season when he chased Mark McGwire for the home run title, falling short with 66 home runs.

Outfield: Andre Dawson

Over five seasons with the Cubs, Dawson led the Cubs' offensive chage. He had three seasons with more than 100 runs batted in, and led the team in home runs three times.

Outfield: Glenallen Hill

During his two stints with the Cubs, Hill put on batting practice clinics hitting mammoth home runs. Hill came to the Cubs in 1993 and batted .345 with 10 home runs in only 31 games. Hill was quite a force off the bench in his second stint with the Cubs. In 1999, his final year with the club, Hill hit .300 with 20 home runs and 55 RBI in only 99 games. Hill is still the only man to hit a home run on to one of the rooftop apartments.

Manager: Don Zimmer and Jim Riggleman

I couldn't help but like both of these guys. While I grew up knowing mainly Riggleman and constantly yelling "Pull 'em Riggleman" at the television set, I have come to find out that some of my first words were "Zim" for Cubs manager Don Zimmer.

Both men came in to revive Cubs teams that were underachieving. Zimmer had some success, taking the Cubs to the League Championship in only his second season of 1989. Zimmer was also the National League Manager of the Year that year.

Riggleman also saw the postseason in his fourth year as manager of the Cubs. Riggleman was helped in 1998 by the additions of veterans like Kevin Tapani and Terry Mullholland, and rookie Kerry Wood. Riggleman was fired at the end of the 1999 season.

Broadcaster: Harry Caray

The man is a legend. No one will ever sing the seventh inning stretch the same way. The phrase "Holy Cow!" helped get fans attention, and his butchering of players' names was uncanny. Caray died in 1998 before seeing the Cubs make the playoffs.

Cubs Can't Muster Any Offense Against Pirates

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 04:51:52 -0400

After sweeping the Milwaukee Brewers, the Cubs returned home yesterday to face the Pittsburgh Pirates.

While the offense looked terrific in Milwaukee the Cubs couldn't muster any offensive support for starter Jason Marquis in a 3-0 loss to the Pirates.

Marquis lasted six innings giving up all three runs on just eight hits.

The loss snapped the Cubs five game winning streak and trimmed their lead in the division to only four games.

The Cubs will look to get back in the win column when Ted Lilly (10-6) takes the mound against Paul Maholm.

Cubs-Brewers: Cubs Take Game One Look to Zambrano in Game Two

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 06:31:14 -0400

For the second straight day the Cubs were led on offense by Alfonso Soriano and Derrek Lee.

Soriano connected off of CC Sabathia in the third inning for his second homer in as many games.

Derrek Lee was able to clinch the 5-4 win for the Cubs in the top of the ninth inning with a run scoring double down the right field line..

Ted Lilly pitched a strong six innings for the Cubs giving up three runs, all scored in the sixth. Lilly did not get a decision in the game.

Reliever Chad Gaudin got the win in a relief appearance shutting down the Brewers offense.

Carlos Marmol came in in the ninth inning for the save.

The Cubs will turn to their ace Carlos Zambrano in game two when he squares off with Ben Sheets.

Open Mic: When Is It Time To Hang It Up?

Katelyn Grabarek — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:49:54 -0400

As much as it pains me to put up a picture of Brett Favre because of the die hard Bears fan that I am, I had to do it.

Day after day this summer, I turn on my television only to learn that there is yet another chapter in the Favre saga of his threatening to come out of retirement.

Just give it up Brett.

You went out on top leading your beloved Packers to the playoffs only to lose to the Giants in the NFC Championship game.

Growing up 90 minutes east of Chicago, and following the Cubs and Bears teams of the late 90's and into the new millennium, I watched numerous Bears squads get run over by the Packers.

Never once did I hate Brett Favre. Yes, he was one of those hated Packers, but you had to respect what he did right?

Personally I could never see the man in another uniform.

Even if it was to be the one of my beloved Bears.

The idol of my young teenage years and middle ones, I guess, was Sammy Sosa.

I loved going and sitting in the right field bleachers and watching him.

When the Cubs traded him to the Baltimore Orioles in Feb. 2004, I cried. I knew the time would come when my idol would leave the Cubs or the game, I had just hoped those times would be synonymous.

Of course Sosa struggled with the Orioles, and played his final season in 2007 with the Rangers. He is set to retire in 2009 after the World Baseball Classic.

Some players just need to realize that their glory days are behind them and end their careers on a high note, before putting their Hall of Fame status in jeopardy.

While I don't think a Favre comeback will put his in jeopardy, why risk it?

Cubs-Astros: Chicago Still Can't Win on the Road

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 02:51:51 -0400

The Cubs couldn't piece together more than one run in Friday's loss to the Astros in what turned out to be a pitcher's duel.

Ted Lilly, coming off his shortest outing of the season, pitched seven innings. He allowed one run while striking out six.

Jim Edmonds provided the only offense for the Cubs with a solo home run, his 11th of the season.

Carlos Lee tied the game off Lilly in the seventh with his own solo blast into the Crawford boxes in left field.

Hunter Pence drove in Miguel Tejada in the bottom of the ninth inning off Bob Howry.

Howry is taking over closer's duties until Kerry Wood is able to return from a blister on his throwing hand.

The Cubs also placed reliever Jon Lieber on the disabled list with a foot strain. This is the same foot Lieber had surgery on last season.

In a counter move, the Cubs brought up Micah Hoffpauir and are now carrying 12 pitchers instead of 13 but have the extra man on the bench.

The Cubs will send Carlos Zambrano to the hill tonight for Zambrano's first work in the second half.

MLB's All-Star Game and What It Means for the Season

Katelyn Grabarek — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:29:44 -0400

Ok, I get it. Major League Baseball wants to draw more attention to the game by making the All-Star Game worth more to the players, right?

But is this the best way to go about it?

No.

A team could play an entire season as the best team in baseball, and still lose in the World Series because they didn't get home-field advantage.

Now you're saying, "Now wait a minute. If they were the best team in baseball, shouldn't they be good at home and win at least one the road?"

Not always true.

Take a look at my beloved Cubbies for example.

The Cubs, like most teams in the league are extremely good at home and mediocre at best on the road.

The Cubs are currently 37-12 at home and only 20-26 on the road. Home-field advantage in the World Series would be crucial for the Cubs...if the National League had won.

Every other division leader, with the exception of the Angels, has a sizably better record at home than on the road.

However, we all know well and good what the outcome of the game was on Tuesday night.

Didn't the All-Star Game used to be about having fun and showcasing the best players in both leagues for one night?

What if a pitcher had one bad night, or in the case of this year's game it goes to extras and it comes down to a play at the plate.

Should the outcome of the World Series really be determined by one game?

It is, of course, a marathon, not a sprint.

Someone Call The Hospital, Cubs Injuires Are Piling Up

Katelyn Grabarek — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 05:18:22 -0400

It all started June 11 when Alfonso Soriano was hit in his right hand with a pitch. Forcing him to sit out six weeks.

I don't know if anyone else was thinking what I was at that moment. Something told me that despite Soriano being only one player on a roster of 25 guys, more injuries were soon to follow.

Now as the Cubs try to stave off a sweep at the hands of the hated White Sox the injuries are starting to pile up, as are the losses.

Scott Eyre was recently placed on the disabled list with a groin injury.

Reed Johnson has been out with back spasms.

Ryan Theriot has been out with a hand issue for the first two games of the series against the south siders.

Carlos Zambrano is on the disabled list with a shoulder strain. However, Zambrano is expected to return from the disabled list for his start against the Cardinals next weekend.

Soriano got good news about his hand. It is healing well, and he's hoping to get some work in this week.

Kosuke Fukudome has also missed some time this past week.

The Cubs will hope to get a somewhat normal lineup back before heading to St. Louis next weekend. Until now they will make do with who is left, and some call-ups.

Eric Patterson has been hitting well as of late, however his defense has looked shaky in recent days. Derrek Lee had five hits at the plate in Saturday's 6-5 loss to the Sox.

The Cubs will end their season series against the Sox Sunday, and then head to the west coast to face the San Francisco Giants. Sean Marshall will take the ball in the final game against the Sox.

Chicago Cubs Drop Two Of Three To O'S

Katelyn Grabarek — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 07:13:07 -0400

The Cubs dropped their final game of the homestand, 11-4, on Thursday, behind starter Jason Marquis.

Marquis was tattooed for seven runs over four innings, suffering his first loss since May 13.

Marquis gave up five runs with two outs in the third inning, throwing 32 pitches before getting the final out.

The Cubs managed to get 10 hits in the contest; however, they were all singles. Daryl Ward came off the bench and was able to net two hits.

The Cubs are set to face the White Sox this weekend. Ryan Dempster will face off against Jose Contreras on Friday. The Cubs swept last weekend's cross-town series.

Cubs Sweep Sox, Win 14 Straight at Home

Katelyn Grabarek — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:24:18 -0400

Dominating only begins to describe the Cubs play at Wrigley Field this season. They have a 32-8 record at home and have won 14 straight inside the "friendly confines."

Ryan Dempster loves pitching in Chicago. Dempster is undefeated at home this season, with only two losses on the road.

Dempster gave up 10 hits and struck out four while pitching into the ninth inning.

Aramis Ramirez hit his fourth homer in the last three games as a solo shot in the fifth.

Eric Patterson also belted his first home run, a two run shot to propel the Cubs to their 7-1 victory and the sweep.

The Cubs will have Monday off and Baltimore will come in on Tuesday. Sean Marshall will make his first start of the season in place of Carlos Zambrano. Marshall will face Jeremy Guthrie.

Chicago Cubs: Aramis Ramirez, Jim Edmonds Lead Team Past Sox

Katelyn Grabarek — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 05:47:33 -0400

Aramis Ramirez and Jim Edmonds have taken the reigns of the Cubs offense the past two days. Ramirez has hit three home runs in the series, including the game-tyer and game winner on Friday.

Edmonds hit two in the nine-run fourth inning Saturday that propelled the Cubs to their 11-7 win behind a strong outing from Jason Marquis. The nine runs were the most runs scored in an inning since the Cubs did it in 2000 against the Astros.

Edmonds also was the third Cub ever to hit two home runs in the same inning. Mark Bellhorn, who did it on Aug. 29, 2002, and Sammy Sosa who did it on May 16, 1996, are the others.

The same day the Cubs placed ace Carlos Zambrano on the disabled list with a mild shoulder strain, they erupted for 11 runs.

Each starter scored a run as the team batted around in the fourth inning. Edmonds started the scoring with a home run, which was followed by a solo homer by second baseman Mike Fontenot.

Marquis, who picked up his sixth victory of the season, went seven strong innings while giving up five runs on eight hits.

The Cubs will look to sweep the White Sox tonight in a game featured on ESPN that has Ryan Dempster, who is undefeated at home, against Javier Vazquez.

Carlos Zambrano Loss Could Be Nail in Coffin of 100 Year Drought for Cubs

Katelyn Grabarek — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:57:05 -0400

I'm sure I wasn't the only Cubs' fan that gasped at the sight of Carlos Zambrano being pulled from his start on Wednesday with shoulder problems.

How many times have we seen it?

Kerry Wood, Mark Prior. Both rising stars lost to injuries early in their careers.

I don't know about the other Cubs' fans, but anytime the letters MRI come up in conversation with a Cubs' player, the results are usually bad. Call me a pessimist, but the attempt to end a 100 year title drought can cause some people to be pessimistic, myself included.

So say the Cubs lose Zambrano for any given amount of time, let alone the season, with this shoulder injury. What happens next?

1. Go get C.C. Sabathia.

Sabathia's name has been thrown around in trade rumors among many teams as of late; however, what will the Cubs have to give up to get him?

Sabathia is currently 5-8 with a 4.26 ERA this season, which isn't close to Zambrano's 8-3 record with a 3.13 ERA. Sabathia is a left hander and is playing on a struggling Indians club.

2. Hope we can make it through until Hill or Marshall come back up.

Wow, the first two on this list include left handed replacements. Both Rich Hill and Sean Marshall were sent back to Triple-A Iowa for work.

In Marshall's last outing, on June 14, he lasted five innings giving up four hits and two runs. Marshall is 0-1 with a 4.18 ERA with the Iowa club.

Hill lasted four innings in his last start allowing three runs while walking six. Hill is 2-3 with a 3.91 ERA in Triple-A. Hill started the season in the Cubs rotation and Marshall started in the bullpen.

3. Try to work with four starters until Zambrano is healed.

There's no doubt that with the way Ryan Dempster and Ted Lilly are pitching right now the Cubs could try this. However, it would take a lot more work out of Jason Marquis and Sean Gallagher to make this option feasible.

4. Try one of the other relievers as a starter.

The obvious first move would be to make Jon Lieber a starter again. He has the experience of being a former starter and right now is the long reliever. It would make sense to get him some longer work on days when Marquis or Gallagher struggle and then insert him into the rotation again.

Minus his start against the Reds, Lieber has had a good season. Lieber has a 2-3 record with a 3.21 ERA. That is only one win behind No. 5 starter Sean Gallagher and a better ERA.

5. Hope Zambrano's injury only forces him to miss one start or less.

Zambrano told reporters he didn't think the injury was bad. He wanted to stay in and finish off the batter. However, from experience we all know that Zambrano never likes to be taken out of a start injured or not.

Let's just hope the injury isn't significant and the Cubs can bounce back with or without him.

If it turns out Zambrano is out for any portion of time, it could be devastating. The Cardinals are only three-and-a-half games out and are still waiting for Chris Carpenter and Mark Mulder to come back.

I'm just happy I'm not Jim Hendry if Zambrano is out for a while.

Chicago Cubs Lose Two Straight, Carlos Zambrano Out with Shoulder Injury

Katelyn Grabarek — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 04:25:24 -0400

With their 5-4 loss on Wednesday, the Cubs have dropped two straight one-run games to the Rays at Tropicana Field.

The worse news for the Cubs?

A week after losing Alfonso Soriano to a broken hand, ace Carlos Zambrano left his start Wednesday with a shoulder injury. Zambrano is being flown back to Chicago for an MRI today. The Cubs hope to know more about their ace’s condition on Friday.

Zambrano struggled through much of his start Wednesday, allowing five Rays batters to reach base in the third inning before recording an out.

The Cubs are feeling the toll of the grind of a 162-game season.

Left fielder Reed Johnson was limited in his action on Wednesday because of back spasms. Center fielder Jim Edmonds left the game with a foot injury.

Wednesday also marked Kosuke Fukudome's debut as the Cubs’ leadoff hitter. Fukudome grounded out on the first pitch of the game.

The Cubs will look to avoid the sweep today before heading back home for the start of the Cross-Town Classic.

Instant Replay Takes Effect in MLB on Aug. 1—Good for Baseball?

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 10:09:29 -0400

Major League Baseball could invoke the use of instant replay as early as August first. Is it the right thing for baseball?

In recent years, the game has been trying to speed up the pace of games. Also, this process will not be invoked in a game by the managers, but by the front office.

The use of instant replay has been debated around the Major Leagues for years, especially on home run calls.

As a Cubs' fan, one of the most debated ones would have to be the Steve Bartman incident from 2003.

So am I for instant replay or not?

Yes, absolutely.

While I think it will slow down the game time, I think it will be beneficial. It will cause for fewer manager ejections and ultimately, better games.

While I can understand the idea that it will only allow another machine in the ball parks, it will bring interest back to the games.

Everyone likes to see the disputed calls and the managers get really mad, but who doesn't like it when nothing is done about them?

With instant replay, you can end the disputed calls sooner and in turn, shorten the time of the game.

While I like watching a good dirt kicking as much as the next person, or the way Lou Piniella turned last season around for the Cubs with his argument, I think instant replay will definitely do the game some good.

Cubs Take Two Of Three From Jays, Play Padres In Hall Of Fame Game

Katelyn Grabarek — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 06:04:13 -0400

After dropping the first game of a series for the first time since May 5, the Cubs bounced back on Sunday to win the series over the Blue Jays behind Ted Lilly.

Lilly, a former Jay himself, threw six solid innings despite walking a season high five batters. He gave up no runs on one hit for a final score of 7-4.

Lilly has a 2.25 ERA in his last three starts. He has only allowed five runs on 12 hits in 20 innings of work.

The Cubs scored all their runs in the first two innings. Manager Lou Piniella didn't remember how the Cubs got all their runs on Father's Day.

"Offensively we had a four run inning," Piniella said. "You know, I'll be honest with you. I don't remember it. It's Fathers Day. It's a senior moment. What can I tell you?"

The Cubs have won three of their first four games since left fielder Alfonso Soriano went down with a broken hand for at least six weeks.

Another former Jay, Reed Johnson, showed Toronto what they let go way back in spring training with a big weekend which included a three run homer Saturday.

The Cubs will head to Cooperstown, New York to face the San Diego Padres in an exhibition game on Monday, before returning to interleague play with the Rays on Tuesday.

Cubs Split With Dodgers, Maintain Lead In Division

Katelyn Grabarek — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:57:11 -0400

The Cubs have been able to keep their longest losing streaks at two games this season, and the trend continued on Sunday.

The Cubs got a solid six-and-one-third innings out of Jason Marquis on Sunday in Los Angeles to earn a 3-1 victory and split in the series. After giving up a leadoff single to Juan Pierre, Marquis retired 19 of the next 20 batters while only allowing three hits and one run.

Mark DeRosa led the Cubs offense with three hits, including a solo home run and an RBI single. DeRosa is hitting .303 this season with eight home runs and 34 RBI.

Carlos Marmol was also lights out after coming in and relieving Jason Marquis in the seventh.

Marmol has been a solid bridge for the Cubs to Kerry Wood this season. Marmol has a 2.25 ERA with 60 strikeouts and three saves.

Wood came in and retired the side in the ninth for his National League-leading 18th save of the season.

The Cubs will return home and face the Braves, opening on Tuesday when Ted Lilly faces Tom Glavine. The Braves are without John Smoltz, who was lost for the season to shoulder surgery last week.

Cubs-Pirates: Chicago Slugs Out Win Behind Carlos Zambrano

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 24 May 2008 06:57:54 -0400

After dropping two of three to the Houston Astros, the Cubs traveled to Pittsburgh and picked up a decisive victory in a 12-3 romp of the Bucs.

Starter Carlos Zambrano was looking to bounce back after his shortest outing of the season last time out against the Pirates, while the Pirates sent left hander Zach Duke to the mound.

Zambrano had few problems this time out against the Pirates, while Duke struggled to find control and keep Cubs hitters off balance. Zambrano struck out six over seven innings, and collected four hits of his own, a career high.

Center fielder Reed Johnson chipped in three hits of his own, including a three-run homer to give the Cubs an 8-0 lead.

Right fielder Mark DeRosa chipped in three runs, while the Cubs pounded out 19 hits, a season high.

Alfonso Soriano appeared hurt again in last night's ball game while not running the bases well. Soriano led off the game with a double into the right field corner but was clearly favoring his left calf rounding the bases.

Soriano sat out Wednesday's series finale against the Astros, complaining of pain in his left calf muscle. Soriano was on the disabled list earlier this season with a right calf strain.

The Cubs will look to clinch the series today against the Pirates when Jason Marquis faces Phil Dumatrait.

Unlikely Heroes Ted Lilly, Geovany Soto Come Up Big in Cubs Win over Astros

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 20 May 2008 10:06:31 -0400

The Cubs pulled out a 7-2 victory last night over the Houston Astros without the help of Alfonso Soriano for the first time in the last few games.

The two hottest hitters in the National League, Lance Berkman and Alfonso Soriano, combined to go 0-8 in the game that featured great pitching early on.

Cubs’ starter Ted Lilly picked up his fourth straight victory, after starting the season 0-3. Lilly pitched five and one third innings while striking out six Astros hitters and gave up four hits and two walks.

The early hero of the day was rookie catcher Geovany Soto. Soto came up with an inside the park three run homer, which on replay looked like it could have been a regular homer.

Soto hustled and made it a memorable day for Cubs’ fans. It was Soto's nine homerun this season.

Aramis Ramirez also chipped in a three run homer and two other hits in the Cubs victory.

First baseman Derrek Lee is looking like he's coming out of his mini slump that saw his average drop from .320 to .289 on the last homestand. Lee came up with two hits and an RBI in last night's game.

Jon Lieber has looked solid in his last two outings coming off of a rough start against Cincinnati when he gave up four home runs in just three innings of work.

Lieber entered in relief of Lilly last night and pitched one-and-two-thirds innings of scoreless baseball for the Cubs and only allowing one hit.

Carlos Marmol is also looking like he's bouncing back after a rough outing in game two against Pittsburgh.

Marmol came in to get out of a jam with runners on first and third and no outs, with Lance Berkman, Carlos Lee, and Miguel Tejada coming up and came out unscathed.

The Cubs will look to continue their hot streak again tonight when Ryan Dempster (5-1) squares off against Houston's Chris Sampson (2-3).

Alfonso Soriano Leads Chicago Cubs to 8-2 Homestand

Katelyn Grabarek — Mon, 19 May 2008 09:25:35 -0400

Alfonso Soriano has done nothing but hit during this homestand. For me, this kind of homestand makes me reminisce of the days when Sammy Sosa was patrolling right field for my beloved Chicago Cubs. While during the first month of the season I was everything but in love with Soriano, he has definitely turned it around as of late.

Soriano has done nothing but raise his average from .191 to .295 on the homestand. He also hit five game-winning RBI at Wrigley Field, which propelled the Cubs to their best homestand in recent memory.

While Soriano was anchoring the top of the lineup, Mark DeRosa and Geovanny Soto were holding things down at the bottom. DeRosa chipped in five hits, including a home run, and raised his average to .299 on the season.

Soto had three hits in the series, including a home run and is hitting .321 this season.

Pitching you say?

Jason Marquis (2-3) ended his three-start losing streak in the 4-3 win over the Bucs on Sunday. Marquis also saw his ERA drop from 5.26 to 4.96 with his last start. Marquis lasted six innings, while striking out three and walking one against the Pirates.

Carlos Zambrano was less than stellar for the first time this season, only throwing four innings in Saturday's 7-6 loss. Zambrano did not get the loss, however, as Carlos Marmol gave up a two-run tie-breaking home run to Nate McClouth in the top of the ninth inning.

Sean Gallagher made another strong outing in game one of the series, making his bid for the No. 5 position in the rotation, with Rich Hill struggling to find his control at Triple-A.

The Cubs will look to continue their hot streak on the road against division foes Houston and and Pittsburgh, before heading home to face the Dodgers and Colorado to finish out the month.

Chicago Cubs: Alfonso Soriano Leads Cubs To Third Straight Victory

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:52:50 -0400

For the third straight game, Alfonso Soriano led off a game for the Chicago Cubs with a home run. This was Soriano's fifth game-winning hit on the homestand. Soriano also contributed a three-run blast to give the Cubs a 6-0 lead, and they proceeded to beat Pittsburgh 7-4.

Making his second straight start in place of Rich Hill, Sean Gallagher had another solid outing. Gallagher earned his first big league win Friday, while holding the Pirates to one run on four hits in six innings.

Rookie of the Year candidate Geovanny Soto also chipped in his eighth home run of the season in the bottom of the first to cap off a three-run inning for the Cubs.

Soto was named the National League Rookie of the Month for April. In the month of April, Soto hit .341 with five home runs and 20 RBI. Soto is currently hitting .328, with the eight home runs and 30 RBI.

Mark DeRosa also hit a home run on Friday to help the Cubs.

Newly acquired Jim Edmonds is not likely to get much playing time in this series with the Pirates throwing left-handers in each of the three games in the series. This season, Edmonds is hitting .105 against left-handed pitchers and .200 against righties.

Right-handed hitting Reed Johnson is expected to get the majority of the playing time in center. By comparison, Johnson is hitting .250 against lefties and .263 against righties.

The Cubs currently have a 2.5-game lead in the division over second-place surging Houston. The Cubs will look to their ace Carlos Zambrano (6-1) to keep the ball rolling against Pittsburgh's Zach Duke (2-2) on Saturday.

Zambrano has won his last five starts, dating back to his only loss against Philadelphia on April 11. Zambrano has a 2.03 ERA in 62 innings of work this season.

Cubs pick up victory add Edmonds

Katelyn Grabarek — Thu, 15 May 2008 04:02:08 -0400

Cubs fans went to bed Wednesday night thinking happy thoughts with an 8-5 victory over Jake Peavy and the Padres.

They woke up to the news that Jim Edmonds is now a Cub.

Cubs fans remember Edmonds killing the Cubs with his upper-cut swing when he was with St. Louis.

Edmonds is a career .286 hitter, but was only hitting .178 with the Padres this season in 26 at bats with only one home run. The Cubs are hoping he still has a little left in the tank and can add a left handed bat to a right handed dominated middle of the line up.

Before the Cubs signed Edmonds, Ted Lilly and the Cubs were slated to face last year's Cy Young Award Winner, Jake Peavy.

After dropping a 4-3 decision the night before, the Cubs would have a tough task on their hands with Peavy. Peavy was 4-0 lifetime against the Cubs heading into the game.

Alfonso Soriano led off the game with a home run for the second straight night giving the Cubs a 1-0 lead which they would never relinquish.

Peavy lasted a career low four innings giving up four runs on seven hits, and striking out eight.

Peavy's counterpart, Ted Lilly (4-4) looked strong in his outing again. Lilly went six strong innings allowing four runs, while striking out 11 Padres.

The Cubs are slated to face the Padres for one more game. Ryan Dempster (4-1) will face former Cubs Greg Maddux (3-3) with the Cubs going for their second series win in a row.

On Friday the Cubs will play host to the Pirates (19-21) and put Sean Gallagher on the hill for his second straight start.

Chicago Cubs Continue to Click in Romp of San Diego Padres

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:43:09 -0400

Coming off a sweep of the best team in baseball, the Arizona Diamondbacks, the worst team, the San Diego Padres came into town for a four-game series against the Cubs.

Yet again, the Cubs feasted on some not-so-solid west-coast pitching Monday night, en route to a 12-3 victory over the lowly Padres.

Everything seemed to be going right for the Cubs in last night's game.

Carlos Zambrano (6-1) was on the mound and picked up his fifth consecutive victory this season. After what seemed to be some forearm cramping in the fourth inning with Tadahito Iguchi at the plate, Zambrano settled down and threw an efficient ball game.

Zambrano threw a total of 19 pitches through the first two innings, looking very economical. Zambrano also helped himself out at the plate going 2-4 with a run scored.

Alfonso Soriano also looks like his hot streak is continuing. He had a two-run home run to get the scoring going in the fifth inning, which saw the Cubs score six runs.

Derrek Lee also looks like he's turning it around again after a dismal road trip which saw his average drop from .350 to .319. On this homestand, the Cubs first baseman has hit two more home runs, getting his power stroke back.

Scott Eyre also pitched an inning in last night's ball game. After some elbow problems in Spring Training, Eyre is looking more consistent, like the reliever the Cubs were expecting when they signed him in the 2006 offseason.

Bob Howry also came into last night's game and looked more efficient after a rough start to the season.

If the Cubs' offense can keep up the strong hitting and improved pitching staff, then the Cubs will stay in first place for much of the rest of the season.

The Cubs will face their former starter Sean Estes in game two, and he will be opposed by Jason Marquis. Marquis was skipped in the last turn of the rotation with the off day last week. Marquis was used as a pinch runner in a few games this past weekend.

College Sports Losing Luster Over Allegations

Katelyn Grabarek — Tue, 13 May 2008 03:20:46 -0400

Only months after the Mitchell Report proved how baseball has been tainted by the use of steroids, the reputation of college athletics was tarnished again.

Former USC basketball player O.J. Mayo was allegedly charged with accepting money from an agency in return for secretly pledging his agent rights to the company. So it was no surprise to them, when Mayo declared for June's NBA draft, who his agent was going to be.

Unless you haven't turned on the television in a while you know this is not the first allegation to come out of the NCAA, or USC for that matter. Former running back Reggie Bush was also accused of taking money in a similar situation.

The question is not whether or not Mayo took the money, it is what can the NCAA do to stop this problem and help rebuild their reputation.

With the huge draw to go pro and make money quickly can you blame the athletes? What would you rather have, college loans or a nice salary check coming in?

The NCAA has taken pride in the amateur status of their athletes and has said they will look into these accusations fully. Of course Mayo is denying everything.

In my opinion, there isn't a lot the NCAA can do under their current rules to keep players from taking money unless they really crack down on this situation.

Whether it's the kids not finishing college or taking money before even getting there, this is a major problem. That money is going somewhere.

In the allegations against Mayo they were so secretive that the money was never directly sent to him, but rather forwarded to a middle man. Sure they covered it up well, but clearly not well enough.

These allegations are only harming the great opportunities the NCAA provides. Is it the kids trusting their "agents" too much or not knowing what they are getting themselves into?

I think it's the first of the problems. I don't care who you are, but if you're going into the NCAA you know the rules and regulations before you get there, and if you don't—you've been living a sheltered life.

The NCAA needs to find a way to fix this problem—and soon—before college athletics loses its luster even more, and we see more talented athletes leaving for the pros and taking more luxurious gifts which should never be given in the first place.

Series Sweep of D'Backs Leaves Chicago Cubs Tied for First in NL Central

Katelyn Grabarek — Sun, 11 May 2008 13:42:30 -0400

With the Diamondbacks coming back to Wrigley Field for the first time since the 2007 Division Series, Cubs fans were hoping their favorite team could earn some revenge against the team that knocked the Cubs out of the playoffs last season.

The Cubs did just that, sweeping the Diamondbacks and bolting themselves back into the division race by tying the Cardinals for the best record in the divison at 22-15.

Some of the Cubs batters woke up in this series by contributing to the effort, and the Cubs got good pitching performances from some unlikely suspects.

Alfonso Soriano's bat looks to be starting to heat up with four hits in the second game and an intentional walk in the eighth inning of game three. Cubs fans are hoping he is turning things around.

Soriano's batting average is finally over the Mendoza Line after a miserable start to the season. Soriano is starting to see the ball better after getting two bloop singles and two doubles in yesterday's game.

However good Soriano looks at the plate, he still doesn't look 100 percent on the base paths. When coming around third base to score on Sunday, Soriano seemed to be favoring his right leg and not running at full speed.

This is a concern for Cubs fans and management, as they need him to be healthy for the rest of the season, as they will rely on him to anchor the top half of the lineup.

Daryle Ward also is turning himself around as a pinch hitter, coming up with two big hits in games two and three of the series.

Ward raised his average from .174 to .208 in this series. Ward has a career .265 average. Ward can also be used as a first baseman to spell Derrek Lee if needed, but he will see most of his action off the bench.

Scott Eyre made his first appearance of the season in game two coming in for relief. Eyre will be a crucial lefthander out of the bullpen for the Cubs during the rest of the season. He complements Bob Howry as the second veteran in a young bullpen that features Carlos Marmol and newfound closer Kerry Wood.

Sean Gallagher made an emergency start today for the Cubs in place of Carlos Zambrano, who was scratched because of the bad weather. Gallagher went four strong innings, giving up one run and striking out seven. Gallagher may have put his name in the running for the fifth starter spot that is still up for grabs.

Ted Lilly also made another strong start, and he seems to be turning his season around.

Ryan Dempster has proven to be a diamond in the rough kind of starter for the Cubs this season. He and Zambrano have been the two staples in the Cubs rotation early this season. Now with Lilly picking up his game, the Cubs have three anchors in their rotation.

The Cubs are still looking for a fifth starter. Jon Lieber, Gallagher, Sean Marshall, and Rich Hill are all in the running for the fifth starter position.

The Cubs will stay at home this week and face the Padres for four games beginning on Monday. Zambrano will take his turn in the rotation on Monday when he is opposed by Randy Wolf. After the Padres leave town, the Cubs will take on the Pittsburgh Pirates for three and then head back on the road.

Cubs-Diamondbacks: Ryan Dempster, Alfonso Soriano Pace Chicago

Katelyn Grabarek — Sat, 10 May 2008 12:39:48 -0400

One day after Ted Lilly threw a gem to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, Ryan Dempster threw a one of his own. Alfonso Soriano chipped in four hits and scored two runs in the Cubs' 7-2 win over Arizona.

Ryan Dempster threw a season high 118 pitches in over six innings, giving up two runs and getting a no decision. Still, he kept the Cubs offense in the game long enough for the Cubs to win it.

Soriano raised his average over the Mendoza Line and seems to be breaking out of his early-season slump.

Scott Eyre also made his first appearance of the season today while picking up the win.

Diamondbacks phenom Matt Scherzer went six innings while only giving up one run, but the Cubs broke the game wide open against pitcher Chad Qualls.

The Cubs batted around in the seventh inning, with the final two runs coming on Kosuke Fukudome's second home run of the season.

After a 2-4 road trip, the Cubs have taken the first two games of this series against the Diamondbacks. This is the first time the Cubs have seen the Diamondbacks since Arizona swept Chicago in the Division Series last season.

The Cubs will face Randy Johnson in the final game. The Big Unit will go up against Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano.