Lou Talks Bull's-Eye

Bullpen Brian

Apr 29, 2009

Cubs manager Lou Piniella talked about the lack of intensity after the game. Says his team needs to realize they have a bull’s-eye on their back after winning back-to-back NL Central titles.

The lack of intensity was clear Wednesday afternoon. The end result - a 10-0 shutout - marked the worst effort by the Cubs this season and a 2-4 road trip.

Chicago has scored fewer runs (95) than runs allowed (96). And that has everything to do with the offense – not the pitching.

Respectfully speaking, this isn’t a game you tip your cap to Doug Davis. The Cubs lineup was brutal. Two hits and two men in scoring position all afternoon against a guy who threw 116 pitches in seven innings – plate discipline was non-existent.

And while Aramis Ramirez’s return should help, it means little if the guys around him – Lee, Bradley and Soto – can’t hit.

I’m starting to like the idea of Soriano, Fukudome and Ramirez as the top three hitters. Maybe try Bradley at cleanup with Fontenot and Lee following. Theriot has had much better success down in the order and, I haven’t given up on seeing more of Koyie Hill either.

Dempster hasn’t had his good stuff since his opening night in Houston. However, in all five starts he’s lasted exactly six innings. Most importantly, he’s keeping the Cubs in the game.

Still, he’s not been as sharp as last year. Although, I’m wondering if Dempster is simply trying too hard knowing there’s a lack of run support? Or, maybe it has something to do with his 4-year $52 million dollar deal signed in November?

I don’t know what to make of Marmol’s performance – four walks and four runs in one-third of an inning. Let’s hope he’s not favoring his knee.

This is a big homestand coming up against Florida and San Fran with the Cubs sitting at .500 and in fifth place. Another performance like Wednesday and Lou is bound to explode…and he has every right to.