'22

Well, that certainly didn't play out the way we expected.

2021 was a wild ride for the Chicago Cubs, who shook off a slow start (an 11-15 April) by heating up in May (19-8) and climbing into first place. They sat atop the NL Central as late as June 24th, when things were looking pretty good on the North Side:  Kyle Hendricks was on an eight-game quality start streak and the back end of the bullpen -- Tepera, Chafin, & Kimbrel -- was absolutely lights out.

But then the wheels fell off. The Cubs went on an eleven-game losing streak just as the Brewers put together an eleven-game win streak. Fade to black.

By the time that streak was over, they'd dropped from 1st place to 4th place -- nine games back of Milwaukee. And if the non-signing of Kyle Schwarber and the "trade" for Yu Darvish hadn't clearly signaled what was yet to come, the standings certainly did.

The front office cut payroll at a pace that would make the Tribune Company blush and P. K. Wrigley smile.

Within a month, Tom Ricketts ... er ... Jed Hoyer had traded Tepera, Chafin, Pederson, Kimbrel, and Marisnick, followed by three consecutive gut punches to the Friendly Confines faithful:  trades of Baez and Bryzzo.

Image Credit:  Obvious Shirts

While some lauded the prospects that the Cubs got in return, as well as a couple of Wrigley-ready players (Heuer, Madrigal), the jettisoning of payroll was no surprise to those who heard Tom Ricketts' complaints about suffering "biblical losses" in 2020.

By the trade deadline, the North Siders were 12.5 games back, with only the Pirates to thank for staying out of the NL Central cellar.

Looking through one lens, the trades made sense:  the Cubs were out of contention, and many of those players would become free agents at season's end. Trade them now and get something in return, or let them walk in the offseason and get nothing.

But looking through another lens, the trades should never have happened. A big market team should be able to build around a core of players.

The Yankees have finished lower than 2nd place only three times since 1992. Read that again:  the Yankees have finished 1st or 2nd in their division 26 of the past 29 seasons.  The Dodgers have done it 20 times in the past 28 seasons.

Smaller market teams like Boston and St. Louis have had similar success. So the issue isn't that the Cubs held a fire sale in July. The issue is how the ownership and management of a team in the third-largest market -- with a rabid (and unafraid to spend) fan base -- let things get to the point where a fire sale was the best option.

The balance of the 2021 campaign was embarrassing:  a .357 winning percentage (even worse than the Pirates) and setting a record of fielding more players in a season than any team in MLB history. (File under "tell me that your team is bad without telling me that your team is bad.")

The on-field, regular season tryouts for the 2022 Cubs led to a few bright spots:  Patrick Wisdom set a Cubs rookie record for HRs, Frank Schwindel absolutely mashed (1.002 OPS), and Codi Heuer looked great (3.14 ERA, 137 ERA+).

While 2021 was painful, the good news is that the Wrigley faithful had just experienced the Golden Age of Cubs baseball:  five playoff appearances and a World Series victory in a six-season span.

The bad news is that a big question remains ... will 2022 be more comparable to 2014 or to 1974?  To 2015 or to 1946?

Fans would love to think it'll be more like 2014 or even 2015, but the owners' focus on Wrigleyville real estate development (see also:  hotel, restaurant, casino, et al.) smacks of previous owners' focus on selling chewing gum or newspapers.

There are a few bright spots on the current roster, but it sure feels like 2022 will be more like 1974 or 2011 than like 2015. (Here's hoping it's not like 1946.) Time will tell.

Either way, we'll be here to cheer 'em on. Here's hoping the Ricketts family decides to put on the big market pants and field a competitive team. Otherwise, somewhere, P. K. will be smiling.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

October 15, 2021

Building the Next Great Cubs Team Dear Cubs Fans, In our 12 years together, never have we experienced so many ups and downs in one season. After 18 long months, we enjoyed our much-anticipated Wrigley Field reunion and celebrated some early season success on the field. Following time at the top of our division, we also endured a double-digit losing streak and the difficult departure of players we all love. As mentioned in my August 2 letter, we made some tough decisions that created near-term competitive challenges in return for longer-term competitive advantages. Our mid-season moves also paved the way for the emergence of new impactful players in addition to the infusion of promising prospects. 2021 was an emotional roller coaster, to say the least. In the midst of all the change this year, David Ross did an amazing job keeping our players focused and ready to play. From our accomplished veterans to our remarkable rookies, our players didn’t let up in the second half of the season. From August 12 on, we were second in OPS in the NL (.780) and fourth in the NL in runs per game (4.91). We also enjoyed some solid play from many of our new Cubs, including Patrick Wisdom, who set our single-season rookie mark with 28 home runs, and Frank Schwindel, who led all major leaguers in hits and was second in batting average from the trade deadline (July 30) through the end of the season. While we failed to extend our six-straight winning seasons streak and secure our spot in the postseason, we made important changes that put us in a position to succeed as we build the next great Cubs team. Beginning to replenish our much-improved farm system was just the start. Jed and the team are now focused on reloading our roster. We have the resources necessary to compete in 2022 and beyond, and we will use them. We will be active in free agency and continue to make thoughtful decisions to bolster our team this offseason. While highs and lows are a part of our game and nothing novel for unwavering Cubs fans, I know 2021 was a lot to process. Further, while making good long-term decisions with our roster looks good on paper, it doesn’t soften the pain of losing or the emptiness of missing the postseason. With our attention now solely on the 2022 season, please know this: we respect your high expectations, we share your desire to win and we commit to fielding a competitive team reflective of your unrivaled support. We’re more than excited to enjoy both the journey and our ultimate destination of winning another World Series championship with you again soon. Finally, in a year marked by the ongoing pandemic and significant on-field change, your remarkable support was certainly a silver lining. As always, thank you again for being the best fans in baseball. Sincerely,

27

Hey hey! The Cubs held on to beat the Brewers 6-4 on Sunday behind three RBIs from Patrick Wisdom, including his 27th home run of the season, a new record for a Cubs rookie. Kris Bryant held the previous record with 26.

This one wasn't pretty, with the Cubs committing three errors and the start-by-committee showcasing the good (Thompson, Morgan, Heuer, Rucker) and the bad (Sampson, Wick) that is the current North Side bullpen. Rucker entered the game with the bases loaded and two outs in the ninth -- and mercifully picked up the save by getting Jace Peterson to fly out.

One more Cubs loss will mathematically eliminate them from the second NL Wild Card berth. At that point, the question becomes where the club is in its rebuilding / retooling process. If it's in one at all.

Will 2022 be comparable to 2011?  2012?  2013?

Fans would love to think it'll be more like 2014 or even 2015, but that the owners' focus on Wrigleyville real estate development (hotel / restaurant / casino / etc.) smacks of previous owners' focus on chewing gum or newspapers (a la 1946 or 1974). Time will tell.

There are a few bright spots on the current roster, but it sure feels like it'll be more like 1974 or 2011 than like 2015.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

28

Hey hey! The Cubs came back to beat the Phillies 6-3 on Tuesday night behind a nice start from Adrian Sampson (5 IP, 2 ER, 3 K) and homers from Patrick Wisdom and Alfonso Rivas. Rowan Wick struck out the side in the ninth to pick up his fourth save.

Wisdom's blast was his 26th of the season, tying Kris Bryant's record for most home runs as a Cubs rookie.

Wick's season ERA now sits at impressive 2.16 (0.96 WHIP) with 22 punchouts in just over 16 innings pitched.

The Cubs have been mathematically eliminated from the NL Central title race, so the CMN is now focused on an NL Wild Card berth.

The series continues Wednesday in Philadelphia.

Go Cubs go!

Photo Credit:  Chicago Cubs

43

Holy cow! Jason Heyward's walk-off three-run homer in the bottom of the 10th gave the Cubs a 4-1 win over the Reds on Wednesday night at Wrigley. It was a pitchers' duel until that point, with both teams combining for only two runs, nine hits, and three walks prior to J-Hey's blast.

Alec Mills tossed a quality start for the North Siders (6 IP, 1 ER, 4 H, 3 K) before Rowan Wick and Codi Heuer combined for four scoreless innings of relief. On the offensive side, Ian Happ continued his hot streak with a 1st inning solo homer.

While the Cubs have won 11 of their last 14 games, one more Cubs loss or one more Brewers win will officially eliminate the Cubs from the 2021 NL Central title race. They've already been eliminated from the first NL Wild Card berth (even by winning out, they couldn't overtake LA or SF). If the NL Central is out of reach, we'll refocus the CMN on the second NL Wild Card berth.

The homestand continues Friday, as Kris Bryant and the Giants return to the Friendly Confines for a weekend set.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

44

Hey hey! The Cubs won their SEVENTH in a row on Monday, beating Cincy 4-3 on Schwindel's game-winning RBI and a three-run homer from Happ. The North Siders' bullpen threw four scoreless innings to keep the game within reach.

Schwindel went 2-for-4 to raise his season average to .343 and his season OPS to 1.036. With the Cubs, those marks are .374 and 1.120, respectively.

The Cubs, who have now won 10 of their last 13 games, host the Reds again Tuesday at Wrigley.

Go Cubs go!

Photo Credit:  Chicago Cubs

46

Holy cow! The Cubs came back to beat the Pirates 11-8 on Sunday behind TWO grand slams (Schwindel, Duffy) and a two-inning save from Wick. That completed a four-game sweep of the Bucs -- and the North Siders are on a six-game winning streak with 9 wins in their last 12 games.

Schwindel reached base in 4 of 5 plate appearances (3 H, 1 BB), raising his season average to .338 (1.037 OPS) while Happ & Duffy each had 3-for-5 days. J-Hey went 2-for-5 in the slugfest.

Rowan Wick tossed two scoreless innings to pick up the save.

The Reds come to Wrigley tomorrow.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

 

47

Holy cow! The Cubs came back to beat the Bucs 7-6 on Saturday at Wrigley on a walk-off infield single by Frank Schwindel for their fifth straight win. Six different Cubs drove in runs and the bullpen picked up Kyle Hendricks and Trevor Megill with four innings of scoreless relief.

Frank the Tank had another three-hit game, raising his season average to .326 (.998 OPS). Rafael Ortega also had a three-hit game, raising his average to .299 (.839 OPS).

After the Cubs coughed up five runs in the 5th, things were looking bleak for the North Siders. But Schwindel homered in the bottom of the 5th (his 10th of the season) and the men in blue plated three in the bottom of the ninth to nail down the comeback win.

The series wraps up tomorrow in the Friendly Confines.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

48

Holy cow! The Cubs won their fourth straight game on Friday, beating the Bucs 6-5 behind three-hit days from Hermosillo, Schwindel, and Happ. Rowan Wick struck out the side in the ninth to notch the save.

Schwindel, the NL Rookie of the Month, homered, drove in two, and raised his season average to .315 (.967 OPS).

The series continues Saturday at Wrigley.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

50

Hey hey! The Cubs came back to beat the Bucs 6-5 in extras on Thursday night behind a run-scoring, walk-off Pittsburg error. Ian Happ and Rafael Ortega both went deep for the Cubs, and Adrian Sampson threw 3.1 innings of nice relief (0 H, 0 ER, 4 K). The winning run scored on a fluke play as Wilmer Difo misplayed Happ's pop fly.

Sergio Alcantara reached in four of five plate appearances, going 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored.

The series continues Friday in Pittsburgh.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

53

Hey hey! The Cubs downed the Twins 3-1 on Tuesday behind a decent start from Davies (4.1 IP, 1 ER, 3 K), a nice night from the bullpen (4.2 IP, 0 ER, 3 K), homers from Happ and Schwindel, and an RBI triple from Chirinos.

The short series wraps up on Wednesday at Target Field.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

54

Holy cow! The Cubs shut out the White Sox 7-0 on Saturday behind a dominant start from Alec Mills (8.1 IP, 0 ER, 3 K), two more home runs from Patrick Wisdom, and a grand slam from Rafael Ortega.

Wisdom's blasts gave him 25 for the season, one shy of Kris Bryant's Cubs rookie record. Wisdom's 25 have come in far fewer than half of Bryant's rookie plate appearances. Quite a run for the 30 year old rookie.

The series wraps up on Sunday on the south side.

Go Cubs go!

    Photo Credit:  Chicago Cubs

56

The Cubs snatched a defeat from the jaws of victory on Friday night. At least the Brewers lost.

Back at it on the south side on Saturday.

Go Cubs go!

60

Friday in the NL Central:  Cubs lose, Brewers lose, CMN drops.

In happier news, Brennen Davis jumped to the #14 spot in MLB's Top 100 Prospects list. So there's that.

Go Cubs go!

62

Hey hey! The Cubs won their second consecutive game on Wednesday, beating the Reds 7-1 behind a solid start from Sampson (4 IP, 1 ER, 2 K), 5 scoreless relief innings, and HRs from Happ, Hermosillo, & Alcántara.

Hermosillo's HR came in his first start as a Cub, the team he followed as a kid. "I always dreamed of being a Cub," he said.

Go Cubs go!

75

 The Chicago Cubs overcame a six to one deficit in the 9th inning in St. Louis tonight.  They were able to keep the line moving by sending ten men to the plate and scoring six unanswered runs.  Craig Kimbrel then entered in the bottom of the 9th and notched save number 22 on the season.  It was the Cubs first comeback win after trailing through eight innings by 5 or more runs since 1979.

84

Hey hey! The Cubs beat the Phillies 8-3 at Wrigley on Wednesday behind two-hit nights from Pederson, Rizzo, and Hoerner and lights out work from the bullpen.

It was a long overdue win for the North Siders, who broke an 11-game skid. Hoerner's effort raised his season average to .337, and Patrick Wisdom knocked in two.

Alec Mills cruised through five scoreless innings before running into trouble in the sixth, but the Cubs had staked him to a five-run lead after two. Brothers, Chafin, and Kimbrel tossed 3.1 scoreless innings to seal the victory.

The series wraps up on Thursday in Chicago before the Cards come to town for a three-game weekend set that kicks off on Friday. 87 games down, 75 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

86

The Cubs' skid continued on Monday at Wrigley, but (mercifully) the Brewers lost to the Mets. 

The North Siders are back in action against the Phils on Tuesday.

Go Cubs go!

88

 The Chicago Cubs combined for a no hitter for the first time last night at Dodger Stadium.  It was the 17th no hitter in franchise history, but the first one ever to be a combined no hitter.  After a rough start his last time out Zach Davies threw 6 no hit innings and he was followed by Ryan Tepera, Andrew Chafin, and Craig Kimbrel.

Javy Baez and Willson Contreras both went deep and Jake Marisnick had an RBI single to back the Cubbie hurlers.  Tip of the cap to Willson Contreras on catching his first ever no hitter and what a long way he has come both in his ability to call a game and defensively as well.

91

 Patrick Wisdom's 15 pitch at bat against Ross Detwiler netted the Cubs their first hit of the game and their second run as Joc Pederson followed with an RBI single after Jake Marisnick had a pinch hit single himself.  The bullpen pitched four shutout innings after Alec Mills made a good start of five scoreless, giving up 6 hits while striking out 3 and walking none.  Craig Kimbrel came on and got save 368, tying him for 9th all time with Jonathan Papelbon.

92

The first place Cubs dropped Saturday's game to the Marlins at Wrigley, and the Brewers are in action on Saturday night.

The Cubs-Marlins series wraps up on Sunday at the Friendly Confines.  71 games down, 91 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

98

Holy mackerel! The first place Cubs beat the Cardinals 2-0 on Sunday night at Wrigley to secure the series sweep. Zach Davies' quality start set the pace for the North Siders (6.2 IP, 0 ER, 6 K), who took advantage of a St. Louis error and back-to-back singles from Bryzzo to plate two runs in the third.

Tepera and Kimbrel combined to toss 2.1 scoreless innings to seal the win and the sweep.

The Cubs head to New York for a four-game set against the Mets that starts Monday. 65 games down, 97 to go.

Go Cubs go!

99

Holy cow! The first place Cubs downed the Cards 7-2 at Wrigley on Saturday behind a quality start from Kyle Hendricks (6 IP, 2 ER, 2 K) and home runs from Alcantara, Happ, and Pederson.

The Cubs' bullpen tossed three scoreless innings, including Craig Kimbrel's 17th save. Kimbrel's season ERA now sits at 0.68.

With the win, the Cubs secured another series victory. The series wraps up Sunday night at the Friendly Confines. 64 games down, 98 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

100

Hey hey! The first place Cubs beat the Cards 8-5 at Wrigley on Friday behind five scoreless relief innings from the bullpen and homers from Anthony Rizzo, Willson Contreras, & Joc Pederson.

It was Tony's homer -- on the 14th pitch of an at-bat against Daniel Ponce de Leon that had the crowd really rocking -- that tied the game at 5-5. From there, all it took was Bill Murray leading the stretch and tossing out an emphatic "LET'S GET SOME RUNS!" for Pederson (3-for 4, 3 RBI) to break the tie with a two-run double in the 7th.

Contreras's 8th inning blast provided an insurance run while the Cubs' bullpen continued its dominance: 5 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 1 BB, 6 K. Tommy Nance (of the 0.00 ERA) tossed two scoreless, hitless innings and Craig Kimbrel (0.69 ERA) picked up his 16th save of the season.

The series continues Saturday at the Friendly Confines. 63 games down, 99 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Photo Credit:  Chicago Cubs

101

Hey hey! The first place Cubs beat the Padres 3-1 at Petco on Wednesday behind a strong start from Jake Arrieta (5 IP, 1 ER, 6 K), home runs from Joc Pederson and Sergio Alcantara, and Craig Kimbrel's 15th save.

The North Siders' offense was quite efficient, scoring three runs on four hits. Alcantara raised his average to .304 (1.016 OPS) since his late-May callup.

The Cubs now head home to Chicago and kick off a weekend homestand against the Cardinals on Friday. 62 games down, 100 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

103

Holy mackerel! The Cubs beat the Padres 7-1 on Tuesday behind a quality start from Zach Davies (6 IP, 0 ER, 1 H, 4 K), four RBI from Anthony Rizzo, and another home run from Patrick Wisdom.

Davies' start was arguably his best of the season, and Andrew Chafin & Tommy Nance continued their dominance out of the bullpen. Chafin's season ERA now sits at 1.98 while Nance has yet to yield an earned run in 2021.

On the offensive side, Tony's 4 RBI night included a 2-for-4 performance at the plate and a HR while Wisdom's homer was his 8th of the season in just 40 AB. Willson Contreras also homered for the North Siders, and Joc Pederson collected two hits from the leadoff spot.

The series wraps up Wednesday at Petco Park before the Cubs head back to Wrigley to kick off a weekend series against the Cardinals. 61 games down, 101 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

104

Hey hey! The first place Cubs came back to beat the Giants 4-3 in San Francisco on Sunday behind a quality start from Kyle Hendricks (6.1 IP, 3 ER, 5 K), 2.2 scoreless innings from the bullpen, and two homers from Patrick Wisdom.

Hendricks helped his own cause by stroking a double and later coming around to score, but it was Wisdom's hot bat that paced the North Siders. Wisdom is now batting .412 (1.533 OPS) and is locked in at the plate.

The trifecta of Tepera, Chafin, and Kimbrel continued their dominance as Kimbrel picked up his 14th save of the year while lowering his season ERA to 0.75.

The Cubs start a three-game set in San Diego on Monday. 59 games down, 103 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

105

It's been a rough start to the road trip for the first place Cubs, but the Brewers and Cardinals swapped places in the standings, dropping the CMN.

The Cubs - Giants series continues Saturday at Oracle Park. 57 games down, 105 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

106

Holy cow! The first place Cubs completed a three-game sweep of the Padres on Wednesday, beating them 6-1 at Wrigley. Adbert Alzolay's nice start (5 IP, 1 ER, 7 K) and four more scoreless innings from the bullpen kept the Friars in check while Anthony Rizzo's 3-for-4, 2 RBI day and a two-run blast from Javier Baez paced the Cubs' offense.

The win was the North Siders' ninth in their last ten games, and they've now won 21 of their last 29.

They kick off a seven-game road trip on Thursday in San Francisco. 55 games down, 107 to go.

Go Cubs go!

109

Holy mackerel! The first place Cubs whalloped the Padres 7-2 at Wrigley on Monday behind a solid spot start from Kohl Stewart (5 IP, 0 ER, 2 K) and two homers apiece from Javier Baez and Patrick Wisdom. Meanwhile, the Cards lost, giving the North Siders sole possession of first.

Baez's blasts tallied 3 RBI while Wisdom's were both solo shots. Wisdom is now batting .467 (1.633 OPS) in 15 games for the Cubs this season. And Kris Bryant continues to rake:  his 2-for-4 day raised his season average to .324 (1.016 OPS).

The bullpen continued to roll, allowing 1 ER with 6 K in 4 innings. Tommy Nance (1 IP, 0 ER, 2 K) has yet to allow an earned run in 2021 (6.2 IP), Andrew Chafin (0.2 IP, 1 K) dropped his season ERA to 2.22, and Keegan Thompson (2.1 IP, 1 ER, 3 K) is sporting a 0.52 ERA for the season.

The series continues Tuesday at Wrigley. 53 games down, 109 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

115

Holy cow! The Cubs downed the Bucs 4-1 at PNC Park on Wednesday night behind a quality start from Williams, three more scoreless innings from the bullpen, and 2 RBI apiece from David Bote and Kris Bryant.

Williams had his best start of the season (6 IP, 1 ER, 7 K, 0 BB) while the bullpen continued its scoreless streak (3 IP, 0 ER, 5 K, 0 BB). Craig Kimbrel (0.86 ERA) picked up his 11th save of the season, and Tommy Nance has yet to yield an earned run in his rookie campaign.

On the offensive side, KB's 3-for-5 night raised his season average to .317 (.997 OPS), Eric Sogard went 2-for-4, and Williams' 2-for-3 night raised his season average to .308. Who needs the DH?

The series wraps up Thursday in Pittsburgh before the North Siders return to the Friendly Confines Friday to kick off a six-game homestand against the Reds and Padres. 48 games down, 114 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

118

Monday in the NL Central:  Cubs had the day off, but the Cards lost to the White Sox, dropping the CMN.

The North Siders kick off a three-game set in Pittsburgh on Tuesday before heading back to Wrigley for a six-game homestand against the Reds and Padres.

46 games down, 116 to go.

Go Cubs go!

119

Cubs win! Cubs win! Cubs win! The Cubs beat the Cards 2-1 in extras on Sunday night to take the weekend series two games to one. Javier Baez's two-run, 10th inning homer broke a 0-0 tie and provided all the offense that the North Siders would need.

It was certainly a pitchers' night at Busch, perhaps due to the help of a wide strike zone that led to manager David Ross's ejection in the fourth inning. Prior to Javy's blast, the only two hits for the Cubs were off of red-hot Kris Bryant's bat (.312 BA, 1.009 OPS).

The Chicago bullpen continued its torrid streak by not allowing an earned run over five innings of work. Craig Kimbrel finished the 9th and then pitched the 10th, earning him the second plate appearance of his career. It ended predictably (K), but not before he had a few great takes and one Baez-esque swing.

It's an off day for the men in blue on Monday before kicking off a three-game set in Pittsburgh on Tuesday. 46 games down, 116 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

121

Holy cow! Who says St. Louis is boring? The Cubs trounced the Cards 12-3 at Busch on Friday behind a quality start from Kyle Hendricks (6.2 IP, 1 ER, 4 K) and an 8-run 8th inning.

Joc Pederson led off the game with a first-pitch home run, Ian Happ had a 3-for-4 night, and Kris Bryant raised his season average to .308 (1.023 OPS).

The North Siders' bullpen continued its dominance with 2 1/3 innings of scoreless relief.

The series continues Saturday at Busch. 44 games down, 118 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

123

Holy mackerel! The Cubs beat the Nats 5-2 behind 2 HRs and 3 RBI from Ian Happ and 4 1/3 scoreless relief innings from the bullpen -- including Craig Kimbrel's 9th save. The win gave the North Siders a 3-1 series victory over Washington.

Kimbrel's season ERA is now 1.06, and his 9 saves are 4th-best in the NL. Anthony Rizzo and Joc Pederson each collected two of the Cubs' ten hits, and the men in blue now have an 11-6 record in May.

Next up:  a six-game road trip that kicks off with a three-game weekend series in St. Louis. Here's hoping they can gain some ground, as they currently sit three games behind the first place Cards. 43 games down, 119 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

124

Holy cow! The Cubs beat the Nats 6-3 on Tuesday behind homers from David Bote and Ian Happ, 2 RBI from Willson Contreras, and four scoreless innings from the bullpen. The offense collected 13 hits on the way to the victory.

The Cubs recognized Jon Lester in a pregame ceremony, presenting him with a W flag and Wrigley seats signed by teammates, coaches, and staff. Last night's pregame ceremony had David Ross presenting Kyle Schwarber with a number 12 plate from the manual scoreboard (and hopefully perpetual rights to visit the top of the Budweiser scoreboard).

Some impressive stats:

• Cubs have won 9 of their last 13 games,
• Cubs' bullpen has the second-lowest ERA in the NL,
• Nico Hoerner is now hitting .353 with a .904 OPS,
• Kris Bryant is now hitting .309 with a 1.027 OPS, 10 HR, and 26 RBI, and
• Craig Kimbrel's save was his eighth of the season (1.08 ERA).

The series continues Wednesday at Wrigley. 41 games down, 121 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Photo Credits:  Chicago Cubs

125

Holy cow! The Cubs downed the Nats 7-3 at Wrigley on Monday with 12 hits from the offense, 3 RBI from J-Hey, and a 1-2-3 9th from Tommy Nance in his MLB debut. Heyward, Contreras, and Baez each homered for Chicago.

The game marked Jon Lester's first appearance in front of fans at Wrigley since 2019, and his first in a Nationals uniform. Kyle Schwarber also made his Wrigley debut for the Nats, launching a two-run homer in his return to the North Side. Both received standing ovations and pregame honors.

Adbert Alzolay gave up three runs in his five-inning start, including two homers. But the bullpen picked him up, tossing four runs of scoreless ball. Nance's appearance included a strikeout of the first batter he faced and nine strikes in his eleven pitches. Welcome to the show!

The series continues tomorrow at the Friendly Confines. 40 games down, 122 to go. 

Go Cubs go!

Photo Credit:  Chicago Cubs

127

Hey hey! The Cubs downed the Tigers 5-1 on Sunday behind a dominant start from Kyle Hendricks (8 IP, 1 ER, 8 K, 0 BB) and a 3-for-4 day from Ian Happ (HR, 2 R, 2 RBI). 

Hendricks was dealing, throwing 76 of his 105 pitches for strikes, and scattering eight hits over eight-plus innings. With the win, the Cubs took the series from Detroit.

They head to Wrigley to kick off a four-game homestand against the Nats on Monday. 39 games down, 123 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

129

Hey hey! The Cubs downed the Tigers 4-2 on Friday behind a quality start from Jake Arrieta (6 IP, 2 ER), a two-run blast from Kris Bryant, and a perfect ninth inning from Craig Kimbrel.

Kimbrel struck out the side to earn his seventh save of the season, and Bryant's homer was his tenth of the 2021 campaign. KB is now sporting a league-leading 1.069 OPS. Rizzo and Baez also drove in runs for the North Siders.

The series continues Saturday in Detroit. 37 games down, 125 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

131

The Cubs had an off day on Thursday and kick off a weekend series in Detroit on Friday.  36 games down, 126 to go.

Go Cubs go!

132

Holy cow! The Cubs beat the Bucs 3-2 on Saturday at Wrigley behind 5 scoreless relief innings from the bullpen and RBIs from Contreras, Duffy, & Sogard. Trevor Williams struck out six in 4 innings to start the game, and Craig Kimbrel picked up his sixth save of the season, lowering his season ERA to 0.64.

The win gives the North Siders their second consecutive series win and their fifth win in a row. The series wraps up on Sunday at Wrigley. 33 games down, 129 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

135

Hey hey! The Cubs came back four different times on Wednesday to beat the Dodgers 6-5 in extras behind a nice start from Adbert Alzolay (5 IP, 2 ER, 7 K), a 3-for-4 night from Matt Duffy, and a walk-off RBI single from Anthony Rizzo.

Jake Marisnick homered for the Cubs, and centerfielder (!) Kris Bryant threw out Justin Turner at the plate. Craig Kimbrel lowered his season ERA to 0.69 with another perfect inning of relief.

The series sweep of the reigning MLB champs was a great start to this homestand, which wraps up with a three-game set against the Bucs starting on Friday. 31 games down, 131 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

137

Holy cow! The Cubs came back to beat the Dodgers 4-3 to sweep Tuesday's doubleheader behind a walk-off RBI single from David Bote, a game-tying two-run homer in extras from Javier Baez, and a solo shot from Jason Heyward.

It was a bullpen game for the North Siders even before the game went into extras -- Keegan Thompson picked up the spot start (3.2 IP, 0 ER, 2 K) and six Cubs relievers combined to finish the game.

The series wraps up tomorrow at Wrigley. 30 games down, 132 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

138

Holy cow! The Cubs downed LA 7-1 on Tuesday afternoon behind a complete game quality start from Kyle Hendricks (7 IP, 1 ER, 6 K) and 3 RBI from David Bote.

The game was a makeup of Monday's rainout, so was only a seven-inning affair since it was the first half of a doubleheader. The regularly scheduled Tuesday game starts at 6:40 p.m. at Wrigley.

Kris Bryant went 1-for-3, raising his season average to .323 (1.111 OPS), and Jake Marisnick homered.

29 games down, 133 to go. 

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

140

Cubs lost to the Reds on Sunday, but the Brewers' loss dropped the CMN. Here's hoping that Ian Happ is okay after a nasty collision with Nico Hoerner in the outfield.

The Cubs now head home to kick off a six-game homestand:  three against the Dodgers and three against the Pirates. 28 games down, 134 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

141

Holy cow! The Cubs came back to beat the Reds 3-2 on Saturday behind a 3-for-3 night from Nico Hoerner and 5 shutout innings from the bullpen. Craig Kimbrel picked up the save, his fifth of the season, while keeping his season ERA at 0.00.

Hoerner reached base in all four of his plate appearances, raising his season average to .375 and his OPS to 1.018. "I know it’s early in the year, but it’s definitely significant for the morale of this team and what we can do in games like that," Hoerner said. .Jason Heyward and Zach Davies each knocked in a run for the visiting North Siders.

The rubber game of the series takes place Sunday at the Great American Ball Park before the Cubs head back to Wrigley to kick off a six-game homestand against the Dodgers and Pirates. 27 games down, 135 to go.

Go Cubs go!

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142

Hey hey! The Cubs downed Atlanta 9-3 on Thursday night behind a QS from Alzolay (6 IP, 2 ER, 6 K) and multiple-hit nights from Tony, J-Hey, Duffy, KB, & Nico.

Hoerner reached base in 3 of 5 plate appearances, raising his season average to .360 and his OPS to 1.004. KB's night raised his average to .310 with a 1.011 OPS.

The North Siders head to Cincinnati for a three-game weekend set on Friday before returning to the Friendly Confines for a six-game homestand next week. 25 games down, 137 to go.

Go Cubs go!

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143

The Cubs got walloped by Atlanta on Wednesday, but there were two silver linings:  the Brewers lost, dropping the CMN, and Anthony Rizzo struck out Freddie Freeman. Rizzo's career ERA as a reliever remains 0.00.

You know it's not a good night when three position players pitch for your team ... and they give up 0 runs compared to the pitchers' 10.

The series wraps up tomorrow in Georgia before the Cubs head to Cincy for a three-game weekend series.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit:  Chicago Cubs

144

The Cubs dropped Monday's game to Atlanta 8-7 despite a grand slam from KB and a 2-run HR from Willy. Zach Davies had a rough outing (3.2 IP, 6 H, 4 BB, 5 ER), and the Cubs' comeback effort fell short. Meanwhile, the Brewers lost to the Marlins, dropping the CMN.

Bryant's season OPS stands at .993, and Nico Hoerner's 2-for-5 night actually lowered his average to .429. The series continues Tuesday in Georgia. 22 games down, 140 to go.

Go Cubs go!

Image Credits:  Chicago Cubs