Wrap Up of The Giants Cubs Series

As the Giants, Cubs series came to an end today, the series was at split with each team winning 2 games a piece. This was one of the most exciting series of the year for the Chicago Cubs. After the Cubs lost the first game of the series, I thought to myself with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain pitching the next 2 that the Cubs had no chance at winning the series. Boy did they have some fight in them.

After the Cubs lost both game of the double header they did not hang their head, they kept their spirits up and kept on grinding like they have done all year. Wednesday’s game was against Tim Lincecum, former CY Young winner, vs. Ryan Dempster, the ace of the Cubs staff. Dempster got the best of Lincecum on this day. While both pitchers pitched well and gave their teams a chance to win, Dempster was just a little bit better. After the Giants scored one run in the ninth to tie the game, it was the Cubs turn to come back. The Cubs did just that in bottom half of the inning as pinch-hitter Aramis Ramirez singled to drive in Tony Campana to give the Cubs 2-1 walk off victory.

Today’s game featured two veteran pitchers, Matt Cain and Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano gave up a run in the first inning and then left the game after that because of back problems.  Marcos Mateo came in out of the pen and pitched five shutout innings to keep the game at 1-0. Then going into the ninth inning down one, Aramis Ramirez tied the game with a home run. However, Pablo Sandoval homered in the 13^th, to give the Giants the lead, but Darwin Barney's tied the game with a single in the 13^th. Then Geovany Soto won the game in another walk off fashion with a three-run shot. This 2011 season for the Cubs have not had many bright spots, but when fans look back on the season, this is something they can point to as a highlight of the season.

Players Hot, Cubs Not

As the 2011 season has officially gone half way point, a few Cubs players have started to heat up. However this has not helped the Cubs chances for the playoffs because they put themselves in a pretty big hole by losing in the beginning of the season. As of right now the Cubs are on pace to lose over 90 games. Even if they play good baseball, they probably will not be back into playoff contention.

Jim Hendry has recently said that the Cubs will not have a fire sale and keep most of their players intact on the current roster. I believe this might be the wrong move for the Cubs to just stand pat. However, I believe the Cubs will listen to trade offers on anyone except Starling Castro, so no one other than him is untouchable. With players like Aramis Ramirez and Carlos Pena heating up, this might be the best time to start to trade these two players and get something in return for them. These two will mostly not be Cubs in 2012, so you might as well try and get something in return for them instead of just letting them walk away after the season.

Pena has 17 homeruns since April and 3 homeruns in the last 5 games. Ramirez in June is hitting .301 and has 7 Homeruns and 20 RBIs. These two players stock on the market has not been higher at any point this year. I believe teams will be looking at these two players very closely to see if they can help them down the stretch. A team like the San Francisco Giants has a world class pitching staff, but do not have the hitting to go along with it. Both of these to players would immediate help the hitting woes of the Giants. Other teams that may be interesting in either of these players may include the Rangers, Diamondbacks, and the Indians.

Day Game Problematic for The Cubs?

Throughout the years, players and fan of the Cubs wonder to themselves if the problem with the Cubs is not that they are cursed, but they play too many day games. The majority of the Cubs home games are day games. Also, many baseball experts point to this as the reason for the Cubs struggles late in the season.

Scott Rolen who has played for the St. Louis Cardinals and Cinianti Reds has played in the NL Central a lot throughout his career and has played many games at Wrigley Field. He has said in the past that the Cubs cannot win because of all the day games. He says that the Cubs need to find the right players to fit the day game style of baseball. He has said that younger players must be committed to winning because the nightlife in Chicago can keep a player from performing at his very best.

However on the other hand, a player like Mark Derosa, who played for the Cubs in 2006-2007, said he embraced and loved to play day games in Chicago. On Tuesday, June 28, 2011, Derosa was interviewed on Chicago Tribune Live on Comcast Sports Net and said he did not mind playing day games. He said that is what makes it unique to be a Chicago Cubs.

I do not know if Scott Rolen and other baseball players, who do not like playing day game, are right. All I know is that if you do not like to play day baseball game, do not come to Chicago. I believe it is something you must embrace and it is what makes Wrigley Field, Wrigley Field.

Sneeze Page: Top June Posts

Should Bob Brently Be Managing the Cubs?

This is a post I wrote about Bob Brently and if he should have gotten a better look last offseason at being the Chicago Cubs Manager. Bob has won a World Series, which many Cubs fans have very experienced. When he won the World Series, he won with a team no one thought would win.

To continue reading, Click Here

A Rising Star-ling Castro

This article is about Starling Castro and how he is becoming a superstar for the Cubs at such a young age, 21. I talked about how he came crashing into the MLB scene with his debute in 2010 against the Reds. I talked about how he still must improve at some parts of his game to get to the elite level.

To continue reading, Click Here

Yankees Vs. Cubs: History Will Not Be Made

Here I wrote about how the Yankees were coming to town for only the second time in over 65 years. I talked about how the Cubs are not having a great year by their standards and that history would not be made against them. This is because Derek Jeter, who was going for hit 3000, went to the DL earlier in that week.

To continue reading, Click Here

Moreland Finding his Niche

In Moreland Finding his Niche , I talked about how Keith is growing as a broadcaster and that he is doing a great filling in for Ron Santo. I talked about how Keith had a great career as a Cubs. I also said that Pat Hughes and him might be a great duo for years to come.

To continue reading, Click Here

Review of Harry Caray's Resturant

Harry Caray's is an Italian Steakhouse in Chicago, Rosemont, and Lemont, Illinois. Harry Caray’s is named for the late Hall of Fame baseball announcer for the Cubs, Harry Caray. It opened on October 23, 1987 and has become one of the most nationally recognized restaurants in the Midwest. This legendary Italian Steakhouse serves the finest prime, aged steaks, and chops in a traditional Chicago atmosphere.

Harry Caray’s is often regarded as a 4 to 5-star restaurant for their food, bar, and entertainment. It is fairly cheap with the price range from $20-45 dollars. The restaurant is a museum to all things Chicago and the Chicago Cubs. It is a memorial and a shrine to the Cubs and Harry Caray with photos, artwork and autographed bats and balls. The restaurant has a very good menu, with a lot of American and Italian selections to choose from.

The restaurant gets a lot of business during and after the baseball because it is located in the Chicago, which is crawling with Cubs fans. It is the perfect place to grab at bite to eat or watch any Chicago sports game in the bar. It has hosted many famous events in Chicago Cubs history including: Infamous Foul Ball Destruction after the Cubs lost the in the 2003 playoffs and In 1995, Jay Leno broadcasted his late-night talk show via satellite straight from Harry’s bar.

So next time you are around the Chicago area, you have to stop in at Harry Carrys and grab a bite to eat. Your trip to downtown Chicago will not be complete without stopping in Harry Caray’s to grab a bite to eat. I have personally eaten there and could not of been happier with the food, service, and decorations. Remember Cubs Fans, Holy Cow!

Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum's Finish Line Bookestore

The Chicago Cubs have many different outlets that seller their products, but one that stands out is Finish Line for their Cubs apparel. They have an extensive selection of all Cubs merchandise from tee shirts, sweatshirts, track jacks, and sandals. You can view some of these products that I have in my Finish Line bookstore on my website's shop at Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum.

• The first product you will see is the Chicago Cubs Cooperstown Wicked MLB Full Zip Hoodie. The hoodie has an old school style with a new school feel.  It is made from 100% cotton material, with a stitched logo, front pouch and full zip front. It is the perfect way to show off your team pride on a breezy day.
• The next product you will see is the Reebok Chicago Cubs ZSlide Men's MLB Sandals. This shoe is the perfect way to show off your team sprit during the summer. These stylish slide sandals have the Chicago Cubs logo across the strap for everyone to see. Just put these on and wear them to a game, around the house, or show them off at a party, they are good for just about any occasion.
• Then this one is for women only. The Nike Chicago Cubs 3-2 MLB Women's Track Jacket is a great gift to buy for the women in your life. Throw on this jacket when the weather gets a little bit cooler, especially after the sun goes down. You will still look great showing your Chicago Cubs Spirit. This jacket features ribbed cuffs, bottom and side pockets, and embroidered Nike symbol on left chest.
• The Nike Chicago Cubs Local MLB Men's Tee is the forth product in my bookstore. The shirts say Beware of the Ivy with a leaf on the front of the shirt. Nike brings a new meaning to comfortable with their Dri-Fit tees that are built to withstand any and all workouts with moisture wicking technology. This tee keeps you cool and dry while providing a loose comfortable fit and supporting. This tee shirt will keep you cool and comfortable even on the hottest day at Wrigley.
• Another intriguing product is the Chicago Cubs MLB Track Jacket. This track jacket is the definition of style. This is a heavier jacket that you would want to wear during the colder month of the baseball season, typically during September and October. The Jacket features high collar, ribbed cuffs, bottom, and side pockets, and the Cubs team name stitched on the front with logo on the left sleeve.
• If you are looking to buy a new hat, you have come to the right place. With the Red Chicago Cubs MLB Basic Cap, you will fit right in wherever there are Cubs fans. The Cubs logo is on the front and the MLB logo is on the back. The New Era flag flies on the left side. You do not want to miss out on this product because the price is only $12.99!
• The next product is one that you do not want to pass up on. The Reebok Chicago Cubs MLB Men's Cooperstown Hoodie comes in the Chicago Cubs baby blue color. The hoodie is an old school one with the Cubs logo on the front middle chest. This is great to throw on at the chilly games to cheer on your Chicago Cubs. The hoodie features the team name and logo in faded printed on the front and also has front pouch for storage and style.
• If you love Mr. Cub, you do not want to miss out on this next product. The Nike Chicago Cubs Ernie Banks MLB Men's Jersey is a must have for all Ernie Banks fans. It has the Cubs old logo from when Banks played on the front and his number #14 and name on the back.
• The Chicago Cubs Cooperstown MLB Men's Hair Tee is a great buy for the Cubs fan with a sense of humor. You simply cannot be a baseball fan without these one of a kind MLB tees. The tee features a silhouette face of MLB superstars from the 70's, 80's and 90's with their hat and facial hair screen-printed on the front. This one features Andre Dawson. It is another Nike Dry-Fit, which will help you stay cool in the hottest of temperatures.
• The final product in my Finish Line bookstore is the Nike Chicago Cubs DriFit Legend MLB Men's Tee. This is just your classic Cubs tee shirt that comes in grey. It is another must have for Cubs fans of all ages.

After reading about these products, I hope I have sparked your interest. Please if you like any of these products, visit my website and buy them from there. It is the quickest and most efficient way to purchase these awesome Cubs products. So what are you waiting for, get buying!

Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum

Hey everyone if you like my blog posts, please take some time and visit my website, Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum. The purpose of Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum is to provide fans of the Cubs the honest truth behind the team. I provide the ugly truth in my articles and I try to be as unbiased as possible. I have periodic reviews of anything that has to do with the Cubs, from management, the field, the organization, and players. I also want to help promote the Chicago Cubs and try and get the Cubs some more awareness for what they are doing on and off the field.

When you first log on top my website you notice that I have a link to this blog and an ESPN scoreboard with other Chicago Cubs new on it. You will notice at the top menu bar that I have a section called, “Articles”. This is the section where I keep my longer article about the Cubs. These articles have a very casual tone and are very easy to read. The site is easy to navigate and user friendly.

I have my own Chicago Cubs Bleacher Bum shop, which I designed and created the products myself. The site is still a work in progress, but I am making new improvements each and everyday. I hope to be done with the majority of the site in a few weeks. I would love to hear what you guys think and I am opened for suggestions for change. Remember Go Cubs and together we can “Reverse the Billy Goat Curse”!

A Falling Star

I recently talked about a Chicago Cubs player that is starting to become a superstar, which you can read by clicking here, but a former star is about to be on his way out of Chicago is Kosuke Fukudome. Kosuke may never of been a star in the United States, but before he came over from Japan, he was one of the best players in the Japanese Central League.

Fukudome played nine seasons for the Chunichi  Dragons and was also a member of the Japanese national baseball team. They won a silver medal in the 1996 Summer Olympics, a bronze medal in the 2004 Summer Olympics, and placed in first in the 2006 World Baseball Classic and 2009 World Baseball Classic. He batted .351 with 31 home runs and 104 RBIs in 2006 when in won the Japan Central League MVP. After the 2007 season, he was one of the most sought after free agents in the United States.

On December 11, 2007, the Chicago Cubs signed Fukudome to a four-year, $48 million contract. Fukudome said in an interview that one of the main reasons for choosing the Cubs was that he wanted to be the first Japanese player to play for the Cubs. He also thought Chicago had a great Japanese community and that it was a great place to raise his kids. Fukodume numbers are nowhere close to what they were in Japan and has been a disappointment for the Cubs. In his 9 seasons in Japan he averaged a .305 batting average, .398 on base percentage, 21 homeruns and 71 RBIs. In the US, he averages a .262 batting average .372 on base percentage, 9 homeruns and 41 RBIs. He has been a very serviceable player, but not the star the Cubs hoped he would turn into when they signed him.

#23, Ryne Sandberg

Ryne Sandberg is a former Major League Baseball second baseman and is one of the most famous Chicago Cubs. Ryne played from 1981–1997 and he spent the majority of his career with the Chicago Cubs.  Sandberg was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in January 2005 and his number #23 retired by the Cubs.

During his playing career, Sandberg established himself as a perennial All-Star by making 10 consecutive appearances. He was also an outstanding fielder, winning 9 consecutive Gold Gloves and has a career fielding percentage of .989, which is a major league record at second base. His career batting average is .285, and he has 2,386 hits, 282 home runs, and 1,061 RBIs. After his playing career, he decided he wanted to be a manager and the Cubs gave him a job in their minors in 2006 for the Cubs single-A affiliate, Peoria Chief.

Sandberg then spend the next two seasons, 2006-07 with Peoria. Then the next season in 2008, he was promoted to manager of the Double-A Tennessee Smokies. In 2009 and 2010, Sandberg spend his team with Triple-A Iowa Cubs. Sandberg was named Pacific Coast League Manager of the Year in 2010. Ryne has always said his dream job is to manage the Chicago Cubs. After the 2010 season the Cubs had an opening at manager and he seemed to be the front-runner.

On Oct. 19, 2010, Mike Quade was named Cubs manager and Ryne was very disappointed. He did everything the Cubs asked him to do and he taught that he was going to get the job. The Cubs offered him his old job back, but he did not take it. Sandberg currently manages the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, which is the AAA affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Only will tell if Sandberg he a chance to fulfill his dream and manage the Cubs.

Check this interesting SI article on Ryne and his new home in Philly.

Jim Hendry's Time in Chicago

Jim is Vice President/General Manager of the Chicago Cubs. Former Cubs President/CEO Andy MacPhail promoted Hendry to General Manager on July 5, 2002. Hendry has been with the Cubs since 1995.  In 1995, the Cubs hired Hendry as the director of player development. His job included running minor league operations and scouting. Before his promotion to GM in 2002, he was named an Assistant General Manager/Player Personnel Director in 2001.

Hendry’s tenure as Cubs General Manager has been one with mixed results. In 2003, Hendry hired Dusty Baker, former San Francisco Giants manager, and one of the best managers on the market. Under Baker, the Cubs made their first playoff appearance in the Hendry era, but in the next three years they had some of the worst records in the National League.

In the 2006 offseason, Hendry went on a spending spree starting when Hendry hired fiery veteran manager Lou Piniella. He also went out a signed Alfonzo Soriano to an eight year, $136 million contract to play outfield for the Cubs.  Then after third baseman Aramis Ramirez opted out of his contract and filed for free agency, Hendry offered him a new five year, $73 million dollar contract. Under the first two years under Lou, the Cubs made the playoff in 2007 and 2008. It once again looked like Hendry’s moves paid off. However, the Cubs struggled in the playoffs and lost in the first rounds each year.

In 2009, 2010, and so far in 2011, the Cubs teams have been major disappointments. Lou Piniella resigned in 2010, and the Cubs have a lot of veterans not playing well. A lot people around baseball feel that Soriano is not longer fit for the outfield and Aramis is no longer the superstar he used to be. With all that being said, I think Jim Hendry is on a short leash and we will see if he is back with the Cubs in 2012.

For more on Hendry, check out the Cubdom Blog

What Happens if The Cubs Become Sellers?

Everyone knows that the Cubs are not having the season that they thought they would be having in in spring training. The Cubs are still 10 games back in the NL Central Division with a 30-44 record. They have lost 4 of their last 6 to the Yankees and the hated White Sox’s. Thing are not looking so well, so with the trading deadline coming up in a little bit over a month, July 31, what will happens if they Cubs decided to become sellers. Lets take a look at what players might get traded. Some players might include:

• Kerry Wood: Wood took a hometown discount to come back to the Cubs and signed a contract of 1.5 million dollars. If he can still healthy, would he accept a trade anywhere because he said Chicago is where his family wanted to be, I do not think so. I expect him to finish the year as a Cub.

• John Grabow: Grabow is a veteran lefty who is having an average season but could be a good player is someone is looking for a lefty specialist. If someone can eat his contract, which he is due around 3 million dollars, he could get moved. I expect the Cubs will try and trade him.

• Carlos Pena: Pena is hot right now after starting the season off slow. He has homered in each game during the White Sox series. He now has 14 HR, 38RBIs, and 43 walks. He will definitely be moved at the trading deadline.

• Kosuke Fukudome: Each year Fukudome get off to a very good start and tails off in June, and it is looking like this year might be different. With Fukudome being a free agent at the end of the year, I expect the Cubs will try to move him at the deadline.

• Jeff Baker: Baker is the ultimate utility guy. He can play almost anywhere on the field and hits lefties extremely well. I expect he will be moved at the deadline.

• Reed Johnson: Johnson is a veteran player, who play each and every out hard. He is a decent hitter and above average out fielder. I expect he will be moved at the deadline.

If you want more information on the Cubs and the Deadline check out this article on MLBTradeRumors.

Mr. Cub

Ernie Banks is a former Major League Baseball shortstop and first baseman for the Chicago Cubs. He played his entire 19-year career with the Chicago Cubs from 1953–1971. He was then elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977. Every Cubs fan knows him as “Mr. Cub” and he has a statue outside of Wrigley of him along with his number 14 retired. He was beloved by fan for how much he loved baseball and his famous saying of “It's a beautiful day for a ballgame, let's play two”, referring how much he would love to play two-baseball game in one day.  

Banks broke into the Cubs as their first black player. When he played for the Cubs, he was the starting shortstop until moving to first base in 1962. Banks won the National League Most Valuable Player Award twice, in 1958 and 1959, despite the fact that the Cubs were not very good during those seasons. He became the first shortstop to win the MVP award in back-to-back seasons. On May 12, 1970 at Wrigley Field, Banks hit his 500th home run and Banks finished his career with 512 home runs. He holds multiple Cubs records and is regarded as one of their all-time best players.

On December 1, 1971, Banks retired and the Cubs signed him help out as a coach. On May 8, 1973, Cubs manager, Whitey Lockman was ejected in the 11th inning of a game against the San Diego Padres and Banks filled in as the manager. He was technically, but not officially the MLB's first black manager. Banks career was a great one. The only thing he is missing is a World Series ring. Ernie still can be seen around the friendly confines and he always put a smile on my face when they show him on TV. Ernie Banks, Mr. Cub, is the definition of how baseball should be played.

If you are looking for Ernie Banks Memorabilia or want to find out more about him, check out a  fan page of Ernie Banks

Should Bob Brently Be Managing The Cubs?

Bob Brenly is a former professional baseball player, coach and manager in Major League Baseball. He is currently one of the Cubs TV color announcers.  Bob first managerial job came when he replaced Buck Showalter, now manager of the Baltimore Orioles, as manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks after the 2000 season. In 2001, he led the Diamondbacks to the World Series title in his first season as a manager. The Diamondbacks later fired him after finishing in last place in 2004.

In 1996, Brently got his first broad casting job as a baseball analyst for Fox. After getting fired by the Diamondbacks, he went back to Fox, but that was short lived. In November of 2004, he was hired by the Cubs to be their TV analyst with Len Casper. Those two replaced Steve Stone and Chip Carey. This year will be his 7^th season as the Cubs TV color commentator.

Brenly bring to the booth a decent playing career, a managerial record of 303 win, 262 losses, and a wining percentage of 53. Most importantly he brings a World Series ring to the team. So, did the Cubs make the right choice when they hired Mike Quade, maybe they should of gave Brently a better look. He has something that no one in the Cubs organization, other than him, has and it is something that Cubs Fan and players strive for, a World Series championship. In the off season the Cubs should of gave a harder look to Bob Brently to be their next manager because it is only a matter of time before he gets picked up by another baseball club else to be their next manager. If he win another World Series, the Cubs will regret not giving him a chance.

Also, if you ever have some time to spare check out Len and Bobs Blog

The Legends of Ron Santo

Ron Santo was not only was a player for the Chicago Cubs, but he was a die-hard Cubs fan. No one ever cheered harder and wanted to see the Cubs win more than Ron. He was the first person to criticize the players when they are not playing like he knew they were capable of and the first person to congratulate them when they did a good job. Ron was known for how emotionally involved he would get when he was announcing the games on the radio with life long friend, Pat Hughes. Ron Santo may never get into the Hall of Fame, but he always said his Hall of Fame is Wrigley Field.

Ron, was signed by the Chicago Cubs in 1959, and made his debut on June 26, 1960. He played for the Cubs for over 13 years. He was a power-hitting third baseman, nine-time All-Star, and recipient of the Gold Glove award 5 times. His playing career spanned from 1960 to 1974, mainly for the Chicago Cubs. Ron was a player who had to over come adversity, as he had to deal with diabetes.

On September 28, 2003, Santo's jersey, #10, was retired by the Cubs organization, making him only the third player to have his number retired by the Cubs. I do not think there was ever another player in baseball happier than Ron, to get his number retired. Even thought many believe that Santos numbers are good enough to get him into the MLB Hall of Fame, he has been left out and is one of the best players to not be elected. He said to see that Cubs #10 flag get raised was one of the proudest moments of his life. Ron Santo passed away December 3, 2010.

Ron was a big supporter and contributor to the American Diabetes Association. For more information on diabetes, the association, or  if you would like to donate to them, check out their Website.

The Friendly Confines of the Wrigleyville Rooftops

The Wrigleyville Rooftops are a great way to watch Chicago Cubs Baseball games.  Some venues are on Waveland Avenue, which overlook left field, while those along Sheffield Avenue have a view over right field. The rooftops have been around as long as Cubs has been played at Wrigley Field and on the roofs there are bleachers where fan can sit and enjoy the game.

Up until around the 1980’s, the rooftops did not have many spectators, but now it is becoming a fan favorite. As Cubs popularity began to rise in the 1980s, seating structures began to appear and building owners began charging fans to view Cubs games. This was a huge issue with the Cubs management however. The Cubs view this as an infringement upon Cubs baseball as the team was not receiving any proceeds for the fan watching the games on the rooftops. Before Opening Day in 2002, a screen was put up to try and obstruct the view of rooftop viewers. The Cubs made their point and began talking to the rooftops owners about finding a medium.

In 2004, eleven of the thirteen roofs settled with the Cubs, agreeing to pay 17% of gross revenue in exchange for their official endorsement. With the Cubs and neighbors finally reaching an agreement, improvements were being made to the buildings so they were structurally sound and it was a win-win for everyone involved. Today, the Cubs now endorse rooftops as partners on their team page at MLB page.

The rooftops have a capacity of around 200 people and are newly renovated. Each building has their own bar and an elevator to take you to the rooftops. So, if you cannot get tickets inside the park, why not check out the Wrigleyville Rooftops.

A Rising Star-ling Castro

Starlin Dejesus Castro was born on March 24, 1990, making him 21 years old, one of the youngest players in Major League Baseball. He is from the Dominican Republic and signed with the Cubs in 2006 when he was only 16 years old. Cubs fan’s have seen him grow before our eyes and we only can expect him to get better.


In 2009, Castro was named to the Florida State League All-Star team and he won MVP honors by going 4-for-4 with an inside-the-park home run. That same year, he was named Futures All-Star Game for the World Team. After that season he was name as the best prospect in the Cubs Organization by Baseball America.

Castro busted on the season when he made his major league debut in 2010. On May 7, 2010, he became the first major league player born in the 1990s to play in the MLB. In that game, in his first a bat against the Reds, he hit a three-run homer off of Homer Bailey and finished the game with a MLB record of 6 RBI’s in a major league debut.  He finished the season with a .300 batting average, 3 homeruns, and 41 RBIs in 125 games. Also in 2010, he was elected to the 2010 Topps Major League Rookie All-Star Team and finished tied for 5th for Rookie of the Year.

Starling Castro has the word “star” in his name, so you know that he is going to be a good player. In 2011, through 72 games, Castro is batting .318 with 2 HR and 35 RBIs. Castro still has his ups-and-downs as his fielding must improves, but he is working hard to fix that . He has all the tools and the Cubs expect him to be a star for years to come.


Check out Castro's stats on Baseball Reference 

Moreland Finding his Niche

Keith Moreland was a Chicago Cubs from 1982–1987 and he was a very serviceable player for them. He was a corner outfielder who has his best two seasons during his time as a Cub. In 1985 he hit: .307 with 14 HR, 106 RBI, and 12 SB; in 1987 he had 27 HR and 88 RBI. After his playing career, he started to broadcast games for the Texas Longhorns and was a fill-in broadcaster for the Chicago Cubs TV and radio. Moreland brings 16 years of broadcasting experience to the Chicago Cubs.

In 2011, he took over for the late great Ron Santo and after 71 games into the season, Pat Hughes and Keith Moreland are finally sounding like a good radio duo. While no one can ever replace Ron Santo, who passed away on December 3, 2010, it seem like Keith Moreland may have found his calling. Last night, I sitting there listing to the broad cast on the radio and I could not help think to myself that Keith really has a great knowledge of baseball. He was on the radio during the game and saying right before Soriano can to the plate that we need a homerun right here to change the momentum and I think Soriano has a chance to hit one here. The next thing you know, Soriano hit a three-run homer to give the Cubs a lead. This is just one example of how Keith is growing as an announcer. As the season keeps progressing on, I expect Keith to grow better as a broadcaster for the Cubs, and the duo of Pat Hughes and Keith Moreland has a chance to be a great one.

Click Here to Listen to WGN Live

History of the Crosstown Classic

Today starts the 78th time the Chicago Cubs and White Sox have meet each other during the regular season since interleague play began in 1997. Each year the series consists of 6 game with each team getting a home series at their respected stadiums, for the Cubs, Wrigley Field, and the White Sox, US Cellular Field. The White Sox currently lead the regular season series 41–37. Each year the series is very competitive and there has been only six series sweeps since interleague play began, 4 for the Cubs, in 1998, 2004, 2007, and 2008, and 2 for the White Sox in 1999 and 2008.

Every year this is one of the hardest tickets to get in the city of Chicago. Cubs fans and White Sox fans do not like each other and every series seems to be heated with a lot of trash talking by the fans, players, and mangers. However, the most famous incident came in 2006 when Micael Barrett and A.J. Pierzynski got into a physical fight.  On Saturday, May 20, 2006, a brawl broke out in the bottom of the second inning when Brian Anderson of the White Sox hit a sacrifice fly, attempting to score White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski. Pierzynski then collided with Cub’s catcher Michael Barrett. After slapping home plate in celebration, Pierzynski began to walk away, but Barrett blocked his path and proceeded to punch him in the face. Both benches cleared and there was an all out brawl, which caused a 15-minute delays, which then lead to the ejecting of many players. Till this day, this is one of the most talked about incidents in the history of the crosstown classic. Michael Barrett has now moved on, but A.J. Pierzynsk is still the catcher of the Chicago White Sox.

With both teams struggling, this might be the only chance the Cubs and White Sox have to win something during this 2011 season. They are playing for the BP Crosstown Cups for only the second time in the history of this rivalry. White Sox one the first one last year with a 4-2 series win. Be sure to tune in this year because I promise you that this series is something you do not want to miss!

Check out the Crosstown Classic Website

The Chicago Cubs Report

Hey fans of “View for the Cubs Bleachers”, another blog you guys should check out is the “Cubs Report Blog” on ESPNChicago.com. It is a blog about everything Chicago Cubs. Bruce Levine, who has been covering Chicago sports for over 28 years, and Sahadev Sharma write for the blog.

This blog includes everything that is currently going on surrounding the Chicago Cubs. This is a very well written blog that has multiple new post everyday during the baseball season. It has extensive gameday coverage. It posts the Chicago Cubs lineup about three hours before each game when it is first announced to the media. The have extensive post game coverage, including rapid reaction from the Cubs clubhouse and around the league. Alos following the games, they get the players reaction on the win or loss.

This blog is written in a very casual but informative tone where almost anyone can read it. They do not use big word that make the blog posts hard to read. The topics on the blog that get the most comments are the one about player speculation. Either a player going to the disables list, call ups from the minors, or trade rumors. Also every Tuesday, ESPNChicago has a chat, where you can chat live with Bruce Levine about the Cubs. Along with the written blog posts, every once and a while you will find video clips on other baseball analysis talking about the Chicago Cubs, which is a nice change of pace for their blog's fans. Along with the “Cubs Report Blog”, Levine and Sahadev have their own Twitter accounts, which every Cubs fan should follow as they Tweet during the games. Their acounts are: @ESPNChiCubs and @sahadevsharma. Next time you are looking for something to read, check out the “Cubs Report Blog.”

You might want to check out these other Cubs Blogs:
Cubbies Crib
Goat Riders of the Apocalypse
The Cub Reporter
Cubs Blog Army 
Bleed Cubbie Blue
Chicago Cubs Online
Another Cubs Blog

Yankees in Town, Zambrano New York Bound?

Carlos Zambrano has always loved playing in Chicago and he has said in the past that he wants to remain a Cub for the rest of his career. Zambrano has been asked before if he would waive his no trade clasue if the Cubs asked him to. After time and time again, his response has been he want to remain in Chicago. However, things may have changed with recent events.

Zambrano has always shown emotions when he is pitching on the mound and sometimes that gets in the way of how he plays. Also along with that, he has had a history of violence, most recently in 2010. Zambrano had a meltdown against the White Sox after giving up four first inning runs. He then proceeded to go on a tirade in the dugout blaming Derrick Lee and other teammates for his struggles on the mound. He was then suspended until he got his act back together and finished his anger management treatment. Then this year on June 5 after being swept by the cardinals, he said to the media that the Cubs are playing like a AAA team and called out the Cubs closer, Carlos Marmol, for his pitching selection to cardinals shortstop Ryan Theriot.

This may be the end of the line for Zambrano. The Cubs have put up with his antics for over 10 years and I think they have had enough. I think now if they went to Zambrano and asked him if he wants to go and play for a contender like the Yankees, he would waiver his no-trade clause. Also, it does not hurt that his former pitching coach, Larry Rothschild, and former teammate, now manager, Joe Girardi are now working for the Yankees. So with the Yankees being in town this weekend let the trade specialization begin.

Chicago, Kerry Woods Kind of Town

Kerry Wood is just a player who Cubs fan want to root for him and see him do well.  Kerry Wood is going on his 11^th year of playing with the Cubs. The Cubs drafted Wood with the 4^th selection in the MLB Amateur Player Draft in 1995. He made his big league debut three seasons later in 1998 and on his career fifth start that year against the Astros, he tie a MLB record 20 strikeouts in a game. Every one thought Wood was on a path to stardom.

Kerry Wood’s career has been a good one, but he has been plagued by injuries problems. In his 14 major league seasons, he has been on the DL at least once in 13 out of 14 seasons.  Still no matter where Kerry has been, he has been a fan favorite, either in Chicago, Cleveland, or New York.

After the 2010 season, Kerry was a free agent once again and he was one of the top relievers on the market. Kerry could have gone almost anywhere and made 7-times the amount of what he is making in Chicago. On December 10, 2010 at Ron Santo funeral, Kerry Wood was talking to the Cubs about the possibility of returning to Chicago.

On December 16, 2010, Kerry announced that he signed a one-year deal worth 1.5 million dollars, basically taking a hometown discount. At his press conference Kerry said that if Jim Hendry and him did not run into each other at the funeral, the deal probably would of never happened. He said that this is the place his family and him want to be. That being said, the July 31 trading deadline is coming up in a little over a month and there will be a market for veteran relievers. So, with the Cubs most likely being out of the playoff race, the question is will Kerry Wood leave Chicago for a chance at a ring. Stay tuned.


Give a look at Kerry Woods Player Profile

There is No Place Like Wrigley Field

Ozzie Guillen is never shy when it comes to saying what is on his mind. Each year the White Sox come to Wrigley Field to play the Cubs and Ozzie makes sure that everyone who follows baseball knows what he thinks about Wrigley Field. Ozzie has gone on record before saying that every time he goes to Wrigley Field he wants to puke. Ozzie also is known for saying that Wrigley Field is the worst field in baseball. As recently as last Friday, Ozzie has had some backing from a well-respected baseball guru, Peter Gammons.

Peter Gammons has been covering baseball for 39 years, and he has been elected as a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2005, so he should know that Wrigley Field is one of the last two-remaining ball parks from the early days of Major League Baseball. On Friday, Gammons said that Wrigley is a dump and the Cubs are going to have to invest millions of dollars into renovating it. While the ballparks may be a little outdated, it is still one of the most unique and spectacular ballparks in all of baseball.

If you have every been to Wrigley Field, you would have to agreed with me when I say seeing a game live at Wrigley field is breathing taking. You walk into the stadium and you cannot help but think about all the old players that have played on this field. In opened in 1916, so when your step foot inside the park, you are not just going to see a baseball game but your going to see a piece of history.

Wrigley is unique for many reasons, but two most noticeable would have to be the ivy on the wall and the bullpen being in foul territory. Wrigley is the only field in baseball that has a brick wall in the outfield without padding. The only type of padding they have is the ivy on the wall, which is not much at all. There is nothing like seeing a game in mid-July when the leaves are in full bloom. Many Bullpens are usually in the outfield or near the foul lines but behind the foul walls. Wrigley is one of the few parks whose bullpens are in foul territory. The brick wall and bullpen are two obstacles that players must watch out for during the game.

Gammons and Guillen are definitely entitled to their options, but once you step into the friendly confines of Wrigley, you would have to agree with me when I say that nothing beats seeing a game at Wrigley Field. So you decide for yourself, is Wrigley Field really a dump? Personally, I love Wrigley and I hope it is there for as long as the Cubs remain in Chicago.


For more on Wrigley Field, check out the Official MLB Page

Yankees Vs. Cubs: History Will Not Be Made

As many of you Cubs fans know, the Yankees are once again coming to Wrigley Field, this up coming weekend of June 17-19. As interleague play resumes again once, the Yankees are coming to Wrigley from the 2^nd time in over 65 years. The Yankees only other appearance at Wrigley in that time was in 2003 where the Cubs took 2 out of 3 from the Yankees.

A few weeks ago, this was one of the most anticipated series in the whole MLB, but one thing has changed. It is not that this series is not going to be a good one or that the stadium will be empty, it is just that Derek Jeter, the captain of the Yankees, is not going to be playing in the series. Jeter has now been placed on the disabled list due to the Grade 1 right calf strain he suffered on Monday June 13. Jeter has 2994 hit and is only 6 shy of the 3000 hit milestone. Many people in the baseball world, including myself, though he was on track to break the record against the Cubs this weekend. However, if you a Cubs fan you should be glad that Jeter will not be playing against the Cubs, and as a baseball fan you always want a player to get a milestone in front of the home crowd.

In a season where nothing has gone right for the Cubs so far, this would have been another thing to add to the list of thing that happened to the Cubs in 2011. I know Jeter is beloved by many baseball fan and even a lot of Cubs fan, so many of you might be disappointed that he is not playing especially if you had tickets to the game. However Cubs fan, we can all take a sigh of relief that history will not be made against the Cubs this weekend.

Here are Derek Jeter Stats

Chicago Cubs Fans: Father Day Gift Ideas

Hey Cubs fans, if you cannot decide what to get your father, grandfather, or husband for Father’s day, look not further. The Chicago Cubs - Cubs Shop has you covered. They got the perfect gift ideas for each and every one of your fathers’.

•  If you father likes to golf, then you can get him a Chicago Cubs Embroidered Golf Towel or a set of Cubs Golf Balls.
•  Maybe your father just like to come home after work and relax, if so you could buy him the Chicago Cubs Home Team Recliner or the Chicago Cubs Classic Sofa.
•  If your father is the kind who goes and drives all over the place, or is very handy, then you can buy him up the Chicago Cubs Window Decal for his car or a Chicago Cubs Tool Belt for all of his tool.
•  Let say your dad likes to work from home so he can spend more times with his kids, well the Cubs Shop has to covered once again. Get him the Chicago Cubs Desk Caddy or the Chicago Cubs Business Card Holder.
•  Hey! Maybe you are the luck one who's dad takes you to all the Cubs Game! Then you must buy him his own Chicago Cubs Jersey with his favorite player on the back or if he already has one, you can but him his own personalized one with his name on the back.

These are only a few of my ideas I can help offer to for dads’, but I have not even scratch the tip of the ice berg of all the items the Cubs Shop has. So please feel free to check out the Cubs Shop Site and give your dad the ultimate Father's Day by getting him a Chicago Cubs gift.

Are the Cubs Getting What They Paid For?

I said before that the Cubs payroll is around $126 million dollars and this is a major problem for the Cubs now and in the future because they have a lot of bad long-term contracts. The highest paid player on the Cubs is Alfonso Soriano. In 2007, he signed an eight-year contract worth around $136 million and this season he is due to make $19 million dollars. At age 35, the once superstar is now on the back end of his career and is more of a liability than he is an asset. He cannot run anymore, hit for average, field, and his on base percentage is below three because he never walks. Soriano is under contract until 2014 but with this kind of production, you may be better off at cutting your losses.

Other contract problems include: Aramis Ramirez, Kouske Fukudome, Carlos Pena, and Carlos Zambrano. Ramierz is still a productive player, not as good as he used to be, but still good. At almost $15 million dollars a year however, you would expect a little more than he has shown. He might be on of the laziest players in baseball; next time he hits a groundball watch him jog to first base. Pena signed a one-year $10 million dollar contract after the 2010 season, however after you see the numbers he put up last year, you tell me if he is worth the money. In 2010 Pena batted .196 with 28 homeruns, 84 runs batted in and 166 strikeout. Pena has a good glove in the field and a very good eye at the plate, but is he worth $10 million dollars, well Jim Hendry thought so.

Fukudome came over from Japan in 2008 and is a very decent player in the beginning of the season but usually tails off at the end of June. Will this year be any different, stay tuned. Zambrano the once Ace of the staff is a very good starting picther but should he get paid like an ace of the staff like King Felix, I am not to sure about that one either. Jim Hendry made some very good moves in the early 2000’s but after seeing all of these bad contracts the Cubs have now should he still be GM? Personally I think he might get his walking papers really soon if this season does not turn around for the Cubs.

Here is a list of the Cubs payroll

Injuries Cannot Be Used as Excuses for the Cubs Poor Play

As of June 14, 2011, the Chicago Cubs record stands at 26-39 in 5^th place, 11 games behind the 1^st place Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs season has so far been a major disappointment. With the Cubs payroll over $126 million which is the 6^th highest in the major; the organizationand fans expects more than a fifth place club and the players who are making these large figures should expect more from themselves.

The Cubs have had more than their fair share of injuries with 9 players having spent time on the disable list so far this year. The biggest problem with these players is that they are players that the Cubs were counting on to get the job done. However, every team has injuries and no team or organization ever uses that as an excuse. The difference between other teams and the Cubs is that who ever the Cubs use to fill in for these players cannot get the job done and that is just unacceptable.

When the Cubs 4th and 5^th starting pitchers when on the disabled list at the same time, they tired to use 4 different pitchers to fill in for Randy Wells and Andrew Cashner. Casey Coleman, Doug Davis, James Russell, and Rodrigo Lopez all got a shot to fill in for these two could not get the job done. Their combined ERA was in the high 7’s and that is unacceptable for major leaguers. It seemed like every time the Cubs ran one of these starters out, they could not get past 5 innings and the Cubs lost almost game. Only time will tell if the Cubs 2011 season is defined by all of their injuries and inability to persevere.

Top Five Reasons for The Cubs to Stick with the Veterans

1. Fans

The fans expect a winning team to be put on the field and they want to win now. This is reflected by their attendance. The last season they made it to the playoffs was in 2008 and their average attendance was 40,743, selling out almost every game. So far in 2011, their average attendance is 34,818, which is reflected by the way they are playing. If the Cubs decide to start a youth movement, I do not think the fan can wait two or three more years for these players to develop and their attendance will keep declining.

2. No fans, Less Revenue

The Cubs organization cannot afford for the fans to stop coming to the games. They provide a good portion of the revenue that is generated for the Cub. In order for the Cubs to keep ticket prices up, they need to have a winning team on the field. Their best chance of winning is with the big money players who must start to produce. Also when the Cubs are selling out their games, that mean more revenue for the local businesses, vendors, and rooftops, which all provide the Cubs with a part of their profits.

3. Too Much Money Invested in their Current Team

With all the money the Chicago Cubs have invested it their veterans they cannot just cut ties with them. Even after this season when many contracts expire, they still need a good mix of veterans and young players to win. Also, they still have a lot of money invested in other players such as Alfonso Soraino, Carlos Zambrano, so they cannot start their youth movement until those contracts are off the books.

4. Still Early

It is only June! The baseball seasons has only been going on for two and a half months, it is not even the All-Star break yet. That being said, the Cubs can still turn their season around. Weirder things have happened and that is why they play 162 games. However it is not an easy feat to do, but the only way the Cubs can make this happen is with their veterans and current group of players they have on their team.

5. New Ownership

This is only the Rickett’s Family second full season of owning the Cubs, so they are still trying to figure out what it takes to put a winning team on the field.  However this year they actually wanted to cut payroll and put more into developing younger talent, however talent takes time to develop. They are business people and they know that inorder to have success on the field you need a good mix of proven talent, which is going to cost them money. I am not sure if the Cubs have the talent but going young may not be the answer. For more on the Rickett’s click here.

Top Five Reasons for The Cubs to Start a Youth Movement

1. Minors Producing

The Cubs may not have many superstars besides Brett Jackson, who is expected to join the Cubs later this year, in their minors but they do have some good players who play team baseball. The Cubs Double-A affiliate team, the Tennessee Smokie’s, have a 41-24 record and are in first place in the standings. Also, their High A baseball team, the Daytona Cubs, have won the North Division first-half crown with a 46-20 record. This proves that there is young talent down in the minors.

2. Young Kids have something to Prove

Players who come up from the minors usually are not making the big dollar amounts like Alfonso Soriano, but they can if they prove their worth. When a young player gets called up, he is not guaranteed any time playing time. They have to prove to the manager that they should be in the lineup. Many of the current young Cubs, such as Starling Castro and Darwin Barney are doing just that.

3. Veterans not getting it Done

The Chicago Cubs veterans are just not playing like they did in the past and if it does not turn around in a hurry then they should be benched for the youngsters. Why is it that if a rookie is not producing he is either benched or sent to the minors? Why is it when the veterans are not playing well, they get to keep playing? It does not see fair, if a player is not getting it done, then it is time to put someone in who will. Since most of the Cubs veteran players are becoming free agents or have options for next year why not go young. For more information about the Cubs 2012 contract situation check out this link from MLBTradeRumors.

4. Lost Season

The 2011 season has not gone as planned for the Cubs. While there is still hope throughout the organization that they can turn this season around, it is highly unlikely. They are now 12 games out of first and still chasing 5 teams, it might be time for them to think for the future and see what they young kids can do.

5. Mike Quade

Quade was a lifetime minor league coach as he spent 17 years down there. He knows how to manage the younger players. Since this is first year being a Major League coach, he may not be able to deal with the veterans. So, if Mike Quade is going to be your manager for the foreseeable future than you need to get the players he needs in order for him to coach a successful team.