Cubs finally find some offense at Home
As I write this, the Cubs are taking it to the Padres by a score of 12-1 in the 7th. With the way the season is going, they'll be lucky to score two tomorrow. But I likey what I see tonight. Well, except for the part where Alfonso Soriano came off the field clutching his hamstring. I could have done without that. But other than that, it's been a joy.
- Before I get to the hitting, how about Jason Marquis? I told you he'd be great! Well, maybe I didn't. But only the biggest curmudgeons among us can complain about Marquis' effort so far. Well, call me a curmudgeon because I'm not about to throw a parade for Marquis just yet. Consider:
- Tonight he faced a team that didn't arrive in Chicago until 6am this morning after playing the Dodgers last night. And it showed.
- Historically, he's been pretty good in April. Even during his crap year last season, he still managed three wins in the first month.
- Interesting new lineup tonight. Murton in Right, Jones in Left, Theriot at Second and DeRosa filling in for Aramis at third. I wonder what Lou is thinking?
- I don't have to wonder about the first part, because Lou said he prefers Murton's arm in Right over Jones. I have no idea what he's talking about. Jones is like Roberto Clemente out there. Or not. But I'm wondering if this is permanent. Of course, Jones had to slide over to Center in the fifth when Soriano came out, so maybe this "new lineup" will be a one-night oddity and we'll see another new lineup tomorrow.
- I am wondering, however, if Theriot is going to find himself starting at second more in place of DeRosa. DeRosa hit a bomb tonight, but otherwise he's been cool of late while Theriot's been the only hot bat in the lineup. I guess we'll know when Aramis gets back.
- Bombs away! Barrett, DeRosa and Floyd all jacked one tonight; the latter being an absolute bomb. I'd love to see Floyd do well and stay in the lineup this year, even at the expense of Murton. Murton's good, but Floyd two years ago was awesome. He repeats 2005, and I'm going to lose no sleep over seeing Orange Guy on the bench. Of course, if Orange Guy continues to start over Jones in Right, I won't exactly be filling out a complaint card.
And that's it. Tonight is just what the doctor ordered, let's keep it up tomorrow.