Monday, July 13, 2015

83

Well, a split with the Cards and a 1-2 series against the Sox weren't exactly what the doctor ordered going into the All-Star Break, but Arrieta's CG win on Sunday at least ended the first "half" of the season on a high note.

The upcoming seven-game road trip against two sub-.500 teams (Braves & Reds) and a six-game home stand against the lowly Phils and Rockies could be just what the Cubs need to climb back up in the standings.  If the season ended today, they'd nab the second wild card spot, but the Mets are close on their heels.

Enjoy watching Rizzo & Bryant in the Home Run Derby tonight, and go Cubs!

Thursday, July 9, 2015

87

Despite snatching a defeat from the jaws of victory tonight, the Cubs have won 7 of their last 10 games.  It looks like Maddon is getting the bullpen settled in for the stretch run (Strop's blown save today notwithstanding), and Rafael Soriano has looked sharp in the minors so far.  I'd be surprised if he's not on the major league roster later this summer.  Rizzo and Bryant made the All-Star roster and will participate in the Home Run Derby, the first time Cubs teammates have done so.

2015's been a radical departure from the previous five (yes, five!) seasons and are on pace to complete their 10th over-.500 season since 1972.  (My first Cubs memories are from the '73 season.  It's been a rough handful of decades.)  They have the NL's fourth-best record and, if the season ended today, would earn a wild-card berth.  Here's to a great second half!  Go Cubs!

Thursday, July 2, 2015

97

The Cubs shut out the Mets (six of my favorite words) for the second night in a row, this time in extras.  They wrap up the series tomorrow before heading home to face the Marlins, Cards, and White Sox before the All-Star Break.