CubsManiacs.com » John Engel http://www.cubsmaniacs.com Chicago Cubs Fan Site Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:35:51 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 Welcome to the Big Leagues: Two Cubs Rookies Experience Pro Baseball http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/welcome-to-the-big-leagues-two-cubs-rookies-experience-pro-baseball/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/welcome-to-the-big-leagues-two-cubs-rookies-experience-pro-baseball/#comments Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:20:44 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/407282-welcome-to-the-big-leagues-two-cubs-rookies-experience-pro-baseball BOISE—Despite the uncooperative actions of the Treasure Valley weather gods, summer is among us and the 2010 Northwest League season is just two days away.  Media Day has come and gone from Memorial Stadium, marking the return of the Boise Hawks and the renewal of minor league relationships.

Though the Chicago Cubs placed 26 players on the Hawks’ 2010 roster—15 of which have previously played for Boise—only two were selected by the club in this year’s First-Year Players Draft just nine days ago.

Jeff Vigurs and Joseph Zeller were both inducted into the life of professional baseball when they were selected in the 22nd and 28th rounds respectively, and were the only two draftees to find their way onto the Hawks’ 2010 roster.

Vigurs was selected by the Cubs as a catcher, after totaling four home runs, 13 doubles and 41 RBIs to match his .333 batting average as a Bryant University Bulldog in his junior season.  Although he saw success in college, Vigurs has already felt the drastic transition from collegiate to professional baseball before even playing in a game.

“It’s a lot different than college,” said Vigurs, “and it’s really exciting right now. I’ve only been [with the Cubs] a couple of days and I’ve already been to Arizona and Boise the next day, so it’s been nice to finally settle down.”

A Mission Viejo native, Zeller, formally a right-handed pitcher for The Masters College in Santa Clarita, California, was drafted by the Cubs in the 28th round after going 5-7 with a 5.24 ERA in 91 innings for the Mustangs. Zeller previously played second base until his senior season, and played his freshman season for Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles.

Like Vigurs, Zeller expressed a feeling of excitement and confusion when first experiencing professional baseball.

“It’s really exciting, but the initial reaction was just trying to figure out what’s going on because you get thrown right into it and just trying to figure it all out,” said Zeller.

For rookies like Virgus and Zeller, it takes the leadership of experienced players like George Matheus, in addition to the coaching staff, to develop young players into confident teammates. Matheus will be making his second stop with the Hawks, after beginning the season with the Class-A Peoria Chiefs where he hit .208 with four RBIs in 16 games.

“What I say for the new guys is that the most important thing is, ‘don’t change how you play; if you play hard, keep playing hard.’ The difference now is that there are more people in the stands. Last Year was my first year playing in front of a lot of people, in this ball park, and I see for the first time a lot of people watching me play.”

“I understand that it’s their first time and they’ll feel a little bit e nervous, everyone is a little bit nervous,” said Matheus.

With the leadership of veterans and returners from last season, Zeller and Vigurs are sure to have a successful debut in professional baseball. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> BOISE—Despite the uncooperative actions of the Treasure Valley weather gods, summer is among us and the 2010 Northwest League season is just two days away.  Media Day has come and gone from Memorial Stadium, marking the return of the Boise Hawks and the renewal of minor league relationships.

Though the Chicago Cubs placed 26 players on the Hawks’ 2010 roster—15 of which have previously played for Boise—only two were selected by the club in this year’s First-Year Players Draft just nine days ago.

Jeff Vigurs and Joseph Zeller were both inducted into the life of professional baseball when they were selected in the 22nd and 28th rounds respectively, and were the only two draftees to find their way onto the Hawks’ 2010 roster.

Vigurs was selected by the Cubs as a catcher, after totaling four home runs, 13 doubles and 41 RBIs to match his .333 batting average as a Bryant University Bulldog in his junior season.  Although he saw success in college, Vigurs has already felt the drastic transition from collegiate to professional baseball before even playing in a game.

“It’s a lot different than college,” said Vigurs, “and it’s really exciting right now. I’ve only been [with the Cubs] a couple of days and I’ve already been to Arizona and Boise the next day, so it’s been nice to finally settle down.”

A Mission Viejo native, Zeller, formally a right-handed pitcher for The Masters College in Santa Clarita, California, was drafted by the Cubs in the 28th round after going 5-7 with a 5.24 ERA in 91 innings for the Mustangs. Zeller previously played second base until his senior season, and played his freshman season for Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles.

Like Vigurs, Zeller expressed a feeling of excitement and confusion when first experiencing professional baseball.

“It’s really exciting, but the initial reaction was just trying to figure out what’s going on because you get thrown right into it and just trying to figure it all out,” said Zeller.

For rookies like Virgus and Zeller, it takes the leadership of experienced players like George Matheus, in addition to the coaching staff, to develop young players into confident teammates. Matheus will be making his second stop with the Hawks, after beginning the season with the Class-A Peoria Chiefs where he hit .208 with four RBIs in 16 games.

“What I say for the new guys is that the most important thing is, ‘don’t change how you play; if you play hard, keep playing hard.’ The difference now is that there are more people in the stands. Last Year was my first year playing in front of a lot of people, in this ball park, and I see for the first time a lot of people watching me play.”

“I understand that it’s their first time and they’ll feel a little bit e nervous, everyone is a little bit nervous,” said Matheus.

With the leadership of veterans and returners from last season, Zeller and Vigurs are sure to have a successful debut in professional baseball. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/welcome-to-the-big-leagues-two-cubs-rookies-experience-pro-baseball/feed/ 0 MLB Draft: Chicago Cubs Analysis of the First 15 Rounds http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/mlb-draft-chicago-cubs-analysis-of-the-first-15-rounds/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/mlb-draft-chicago-cubs-analysis-of-the-first-15-rounds/#comments Tue, 08 Jun 2010 18:31:27 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/403086-mlb-draft-chicago-cubs-live-draft-analysis-pick-by-pick

Day one of the MLB First-Year Players Draft began with the most predictable draft pick in baseball history, when the Washington Nationals selected 17-year-old phenom Bryce Harper. 


The Chicago Cubs, however, made one of the more shocking picks of the first round, when they selected the unknown Southern Arkansas right-hander, Hayden Simpson, with the 16th pick. Despite the lack of name recognition, many analysts have jumped on the Cubs scouting director, Tim Wilken, who also selected rising star, Tyler Colvin, in 2006, and have deemed Simpson as one of the safest picks in the draft thus far. 

Surprisingly, the Draft did continue past the first round, and the following is a summary of the first two days of draft choices by the Chicago Cubs.

Round 1, Pick 16: Hayden Simpson, RHP (Southern Arkansas University)

Simpson was a surprising pick at 16 to say the least, but has been known to throw a 97-mph fastball, to match two devastating off-speed pitches. Simpson finished second in D-ll Player of the Year voting in 2010, though his jaw-dropping statistics in his junior season—13-1 record with a 1.81 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 15 starts—speak much louder than any award could.

Ranked 191 by Baseball America as a pitcher, Simpson was the first choice by Wilken, and once again, he knows something we still don't: How to scout. 

Round 2, Pick 65: Reggie Golden, CF (Wetumpka High School)

Despite believing that he would be picked within the first 35 picks of the draft, Wetumpka High School product, Reggie Golden (above right) fell to the Cubs who selected him with the 65th pick in the second round of the First-Year Players Draft. If he chooses to deny Chicago's offer, Golden has signed with the University of Alabama. 

Golden is classified as a "self-taught" hitter, with somewhat of a wild swing and inconsistency. Despite the questions surrounding his swing, Golden is a raw five-tool player, with bursts of power and exceptional play to overshadow his faults.

At 5'10", 210 pounds, Golden is a tank with average range and arm strength, but with the help of the Cubs' strong farm system, can develop into one of the game's future greats. With more time on the field, Golden will be on the fast-track to Major League success. Staying at the Alabama may be a better choice for him at the moment, unfortunately. 

Round 3, Pick 97: Micah Gibbs, C (Louisiana State University)

In a fairly shallow draft class for catchers, Micah Gibbs is renowned as being one of the most well rounded journeymen in the draft. Gibbs has shown raw power and strong defensive skills while behind the plate for the Louisiana State University Tigers, along with strong range and average arm strength. The 20-year-old hits for good average, posting .294 and .322 in his first two seasons with LSU.

Round 4, Pick 130: Hunter Ackerman, LHP (Louisburg College)

The second pitcher selected by the Cubs in the 2010 Draft, Ackerman went 8-1 with a 1.40 ERA in his freshman season for the Hurricanes. After joining the West Virginia Miners baseball club—a college summer league—however, Ackerman is 1-1 with a 8.21 ERA in 7 2/3 innings. 

Round 5, Pick 160: Matthew Szczur, C/OF (Villanova)

For the second straight pick, the Chicago Cubs picked a player with the same first name as the previous player selected, when they chose Matthew Szczur, junior, out of Villanova with the 160th pick of the Draft.  While there, the 19-year-old catcher/outfielder hit .346 with 24 RBI's as a freshman -- yet another hit-for-average player selected by the Cubs. 

 

Round 8, Pick 250: Cameron Greathouse, LHP (Gulf Coast CC)

With yet another somewhat surprising pick, the Cubs selected Cameron Greathouse out of Gulf Coast Community College in Florida. Greathouse had a 3.06 ERA and was 10-2 for the Commodores. The Cubs usually don't take risks with pitchers with such high ERA's like Greathouse, but with development, he has strong break on his fast ball and off-speed pitches. 

Round 9, Pick 280: Kevin Rhoderick, RHP (Oregon State)

The Chicago Cubs selected Kevin Rhoderick as the third pitcher in their draft class with the 280th pick in the ninth round. While at OSU, Rhoderick won three games as a reliever, with a 8.0 hits per nine innings ratio. Rhoderick has an above average fastball that tops out at about 91 mph, and a sweeping curvball that hits along the high 70s. He also carries a change-up, that floats at about 80 mph. Rhoderick has strong potential as a reliever for the Cubs, and proved himself at a Pac-10 powerhouse as a junior. He was previously selected by the Detroit Tigers in the 18th round of the 2007 Draft, but did not sign. 

Round 10, Pick 310: Aaron Kurcz, RHP (College of Southern Nevada)

Not to be shown-up by his world famous teammate -- first round draft choice, Bryce Harper -- Aaron Kurcz was selected with the 310th pick by the Chicago Cubs, just 10 rounds later than the Phenom.  As a sophomore, Kurcz went 3-3 in 35 innings pitched while in relief. 

Round 11, Pick 340: Eric Jokisch, LHP (Northwestern)

I feel dumber already. The Chicago Cubs selected left-hander, Eric Jokisch out of the prestigious Northwestern University as a junior. In two season, Jokisch was 12-9 with a 5.48 ERA in 2009. Jokisch was previously drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 39th round of the 2007 draft, but rejected the offer. 

Round 12, Pick 370: Austin Reed, RHP (Rancho Cucamonga HS)

Austin Reed was selected out of Rancho Cucamonga High School, in California, with the 370th pick in the First-Year Players Draft. Reed throws his fastball around 88-mph and floats his breaking ball at a speed of 73-75 consistently. 

Round 13, Pick 400: Pierre LePage, 2B (Connecticut)

Only the second infielder selected by the Chicago Cubs thus far, Pierre LePage --second baseman from the University of Connecticut -- became the 400th pick of the 2010 Draft. LePage hit .327 while slugging in three home runs and 57 RBI's in his 2010 junior season. 

Round 14, Pick 430: Colin Richardson, RHP (Winter Haven HS)

With the 430th pick, the Cubs selected Colin RIchardson, a strong pitcher out of Winter Haven High School in Florida. Richardson had a .550 ERA in 2010 in 76 innings pitched. He also showed some strength at the plate, hitting .254 with four doubles in the same season. 

 

Round 15, Pick 460: Elliot Soto, SS (Creighton)

Now the Chicago Cubs have another Soto in their organization, after they selected Elliot Soto with the 460th pick of the Draft out of Creighton. The junior hit three home runs and drove in 28 RBI's for the Jays, while averaging .297. 

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]>

Day one of the MLB First-Year Players Draft began with the most predictable draft pick in baseball history, when the Washington Nationals selected 17-year-old phenom Bryce Harper. 


The Chicago Cubs, however, made one of the more shocking picks of the first round, when they selected the unknown Southern Arkansas right-hander, Hayden Simpson, with the 16th pick. Despite the lack of name recognition, many analysts have jumped on the Cubs scouting director, Tim Wilken, who also selected rising star, Tyler Colvin, in 2006, and have deemed Simpson as one of the safest picks in the draft thus far. 

Surprisingly, the Draft did continue past the first round, and the following is a summary of the first two days of draft choices by the Chicago Cubs.

Round 1, Pick 16: Hayden Simpson, RHP (Southern Arkansas University)

Simpson was a surprising pick at 16 to say the least, but has been known to throw a 97-mph fastball, to match two devastating off-speed pitches. Simpson finished second in D-ll Player of the Year voting in 2010, though his jaw-dropping statistics in his junior season—13-1 record with a 1.81 ERA and 131 strikeouts in 15 starts—speak much louder than any award could.

Ranked 191 by Baseball America as a pitcher, Simpson was the first choice by Wilken, and once again, he knows something we still don't: How to scout. 

Round 2, Pick 65: Reggie Golden, CF (Wetumpka High School)

Despite believing that he would be picked within the first 35 picks of the draft, Wetumpka High School product, Reggie Golden (above right) fell to the Cubs who selected him with the 65th pick in the second round of the First-Year Players Draft. If he chooses to deny Chicago's offer, Golden has signed with the University of Alabama. 

Golden is classified as a "self-taught" hitter, with somewhat of a wild swing and inconsistency. Despite the questions surrounding his swing, Golden is a raw five-tool player, with bursts of power and exceptional play to overshadow his faults.

At 5'10", 210 pounds, Golden is a tank with average range and arm strength, but with the help of the Cubs' strong farm system, can develop into one of the game's future greats. With more time on the field, Golden will be on the fast-track to Major League success. Staying at the Alabama may be a better choice for him at the moment, unfortunately. 

Round 3, Pick 97: Micah Gibbs, C (Louisiana State University)

In a fairly shallow draft class for catchers, Micah Gibbs is renowned as being one of the most well rounded journeymen in the draft. Gibbs has shown raw power and strong defensive skills while behind the plate for the Louisiana State University Tigers, along with strong range and average arm strength. The 20-year-old hits for good average, posting .294 and .322 in his first two seasons with LSU.

Round 4, Pick 130: Hunter Ackerman, LHP (Louisburg College)

The second pitcher selected by the Cubs in the 2010 Draft, Ackerman went 8-1 with a 1.40 ERA in his freshman season for the Hurricanes. After joining the West Virginia Miners baseball club—a college summer league—however, Ackerman is 1-1 with a 8.21 ERA in 7 2/3 innings. 

Round 5, Pick 160: Matthew Szczur, C/OF (Villanova)

For the second straight pick, the Chicago Cubs picked a player with the same first name as the previous player selected, when they chose Matthew Szczur, junior, out of Villanova with the 160th pick of the Draft.  While there, the 19-year-old catcher/outfielder hit .346 with 24 RBI's as a freshman -- yet another hit-for-average player selected by the Cubs. 

 

Round 8, Pick 250: Cameron Greathouse, LHP (Gulf Coast CC)

With yet another somewhat surprising pick, the Cubs selected Cameron Greathouse out of Gulf Coast Community College in Florida. Greathouse had a 3.06 ERA and was 10-2 for the Commodores. The Cubs usually don't take risks with pitchers with such high ERA's like Greathouse, but with development, he has strong break on his fast ball and off-speed pitches. 

Round 9, Pick 280: Kevin Rhoderick, RHP (Oregon State)

The Chicago Cubs selected Kevin Rhoderick as the third pitcher in their draft class with the 280th pick in the ninth round. While at OSU, Rhoderick won three games as a reliever, with a 8.0 hits per nine innings ratio. Rhoderick has an above average fastball that tops out at about 91 mph, and a sweeping curvball that hits along the high 70s. He also carries a change-up, that floats at about 80 mph. Rhoderick has strong potential as a reliever for the Cubs, and proved himself at a Pac-10 powerhouse as a junior. He was previously selected by the Detroit Tigers in the 18th round of the 2007 Draft, but did not sign. 

Round 10, Pick 310: Aaron Kurcz, RHP (College of Southern Nevada)

Not to be shown-up by his world famous teammate -- first round draft choice, Bryce Harper -- Aaron Kurcz was selected with the 310th pick by the Chicago Cubs, just 10 rounds later than the Phenom.  As a sophomore, Kurcz went 3-3 in 35 innings pitched while in relief. 

Round 11, Pick 340: Eric Jokisch, LHP (Northwestern)

I feel dumber already. The Chicago Cubs selected left-hander, Eric Jokisch out of the prestigious Northwestern University as a junior. In two season, Jokisch was 12-9 with a 5.48 ERA in 2009. Jokisch was previously drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the 39th round of the 2007 draft, but rejected the offer. 

Round 12, Pick 370: Austin Reed, RHP (Rancho Cucamonga HS)

Austin Reed was selected out of Rancho Cucamonga High School, in California, with the 370th pick in the First-Year Players Draft. Reed throws his fastball around 88-mph and floats his breaking ball at a speed of 73-75 consistently. 

Round 13, Pick 400: Pierre LePage, 2B (Connecticut)

Only the second infielder selected by the Chicago Cubs thus far, Pierre LePage --second baseman from the University of Connecticut -- became the 400th pick of the 2010 Draft. LePage hit .327 while slugging in three home runs and 57 RBI's in his 2010 junior season. 

Round 14, Pick 430: Colin Richardson, RHP (Winter Haven HS)

With the 430th pick, the Cubs selected Colin RIchardson, a strong pitcher out of Winter Haven High School in Florida. Richardson had a .550 ERA in 2010 in 76 innings pitched. He also showed some strength at the plate, hitting .254 with four doubles in the same season. 

 

Round 15, Pick 460: Elliot Soto, SS (Creighton)

Now the Chicago Cubs have another Soto in their organization, after they selected Elliot Soto with the 460th pick of the Draft out of Creighton. The junior hit three home runs and drove in 28 RBI's for the Jays, while averaging .297. 

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/mlb-draft-chicago-cubs-analysis-of-the-first-15-rounds/feed/ 0 2010 MLB Draft: Will Hayden Simpson Be Another Samardzija-Sized Mess in Chicago? http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/2010-mlb-draft-will-hayden-simpson-be-another-samardzija-sized-mess-in-chicago/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/2010-mlb-draft-will-hayden-simpson-be-another-samardzija-sized-mess-in-chicago/#comments Tue, 08 Jun 2010 02:04:06 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/402745-hayden-simpson-will-he-become-another-samardzija-sized-mess

Just 13 days before the start of the Class-A Minor League season, the Chicago Cubs selected right-handed pitcher, Hayden Simpson, with the 16th pick—much to the surprise of draft analysts. 

Simpson was absent from the majority of first-round projections, mainly due to his lack of exposure while playing for the Division II, Southern Arkansas Muleriders.

Despite being overlooked in the Draft, the Mangolia, Ark. product posted a 13-1 record, with a 1.81 ERA—ranked 10th among D-ll pitchers—and 131 strikeouts in 15 starts in only his junior season for the Muleriders.

In those 15 starts, Simpson held a 42.2 inning scoreless-innings streak—according to the Cubs' front office—in addition to three shutouts. During his career at SAU, Simpson went 35-2 with a 2.39 ERA and 323 strikeouts. 

Simpson recorded a low-to-mid 90's fastball in the 2010 season, with a breaking ball achieving a 25 mph speed differential. The lethal combination of off-speed and power allowed Simpson to rank second in D-ll in strikeouts and victories for SAU. He was named runner-up for the inaugural Tino Martinez D-ll National Player of the Year award at the end of the season.

Scouting director Tim Wilken will most likely be questioned for selecting the unknown pitcher from Arkansas in the first round—but keep in mind, in his first draft in 2006, Wilken selected an undersized outfielder from Clemson, promising that he would be a successful major league player. That player was Tyler Colvin, and everyone and their mothers have heard of his recent success after making the Cubs roster as a result of an incredible spring training. 

According to Baseball America, Simpson was the 191st ranked pitcher heading into the first day of the draft, placing him possibly as a late 6th or 7th round pick. 

The MLB Network was so surprised about the Cubs' pick, that they scrambled to design a make-shift nameplate to be placed on the draft board. 

In line with past first round draft picks, Simpson will most likely suit up for the Boise Hawks in July, after making stops in either the Cubs' Arizona Summer League and Dominican Summer League teams.

Luckily for Simpson, expectations are high, but manageable. 

The last pitcher first round draft pick, Andrew Cashner (19th overall pick in the 2008 First-Year Players Draft), has since been called up to the Chicago Cubs, after only two years in the minor leagues, and is expected to assume the set-up position for the club soon.

As a starting pitcher, however, Cubs' officials hope that Simpson's development wont fall into the same trap as 25-year-old right hander, Jeff Samardzija. Samardzija has an 18.90 ERA with the Cubs this season and 5.89 career ERA in the bigs. 

Though both will have made appearances with the Hawks after the conclusion of the 2010 season, the 175 pound right hander has incredible upside and odds are that he won't become a "BP sized" catastrophe. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]>

Just 13 days before the start of the Class-A Minor League season, the Chicago Cubs selected right-handed pitcher, Hayden Simpson, with the 16th pick—much to the surprise of draft analysts. 

Simpson was absent from the majority of first-round projections, mainly due to his lack of exposure while playing for the Division II, Southern Arkansas Muleriders.

Despite being overlooked in the Draft, the Mangolia, Ark. product posted a 13-1 record, with a 1.81 ERA—ranked 10th among D-ll pitchers—and 131 strikeouts in 15 starts in only his junior season for the Muleriders.

In those 15 starts, Simpson held a 42.2 inning scoreless-innings streak—according to the Cubs' front office—in addition to three shutouts. During his career at SAU, Simpson went 35-2 with a 2.39 ERA and 323 strikeouts. 

Simpson recorded a low-to-mid 90's fastball in the 2010 season, with a breaking ball achieving a 25 mph speed differential. The lethal combination of off-speed and power allowed Simpson to rank second in D-ll in strikeouts and victories for SAU. He was named runner-up for the inaugural Tino Martinez D-ll National Player of the Year award at the end of the season.

Scouting director Tim Wilken will most likely be questioned for selecting the unknown pitcher from Arkansas in the first round—but keep in mind, in his first draft in 2006, Wilken selected an undersized outfielder from Clemson, promising that he would be a successful major league player. That player was Tyler Colvin, and everyone and their mothers have heard of his recent success after making the Cubs roster as a result of an incredible spring training. 

According to Baseball America, Simpson was the 191st ranked pitcher heading into the first day of the draft, placing him possibly as a late 6th or 7th round pick. 

The MLB Network was so surprised about the Cubs' pick, that they scrambled to design a make-shift nameplate to be placed on the draft board. 

In line with past first round draft picks, Simpson will most likely suit up for the Boise Hawks in July, after making stops in either the Cubs' Arizona Summer League and Dominican Summer League teams.

Luckily for Simpson, expectations are high, but manageable. 

The last pitcher first round draft pick, Andrew Cashner (19th overall pick in the 2008 First-Year Players Draft), has since been called up to the Chicago Cubs, after only two years in the minor leagues, and is expected to assume the set-up position for the club soon.

As a starting pitcher, however, Cubs' officials hope that Simpson's development wont fall into the same trap as 25-year-old right hander, Jeff Samardzija. Samardzija has an 18.90 ERA with the Cubs this season and 5.89 career ERA in the bigs. 

Though both will have made appearances with the Hawks after the conclusion of the 2010 season, the 175 pound right hander has incredible upside and odds are that he won't become a "BP sized" catastrophe. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/2010-mlb-draft-will-hayden-simpson-be-another-samardzija-sized-mess-in-chicago/feed/ 0 The Good, the Bad, and the Chicago Cubs: Why Bryce Harper May End Up a Cubbie http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/the-good-the-bad-and-the-chicago-cubs-why-bryce-harper-may-end-up-a-cubbie/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/the-good-the-bad-and-the-chicago-cubs-why-bryce-harper-may-end-up-a-cubbie/#comments Sun, 06 Jun 2010 22:26:04 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/402179-the-good-the-bad-and-the-cubs-how-bryce-harper-may-end-up-wearing-blue As the Chicago Cubs—though still premature—close in on their first losing season season since 2006, one thing may be able to relinquish an utterly disappointing season.

Currently, numerous mock-draft web sites have the Cubs taking yet another pitching prospect, ranging from Alex Wimmers and Asher Wojciechowski, to Stetson Allie and Drew Pomeranz.

As seen with Chicago pitcher-prospects Jeff Samardizija and Jay Jackson, developement of young pitchers can be time consuming, and possibly result in career minor league pitchers. 

So the question should be asked: Does the Chicago Cubs front office have the patience to wait for another mediocre hurler to earn his stripes? And the question can be simply answered with an emphatic "no."

For Cubs fans looking for something to cheer about that doesn't involve the Blackhawks in 2010, draft day may be a short term solution to their spring woes. 

As draft day approaches (round one begins at 7 p.m. ET on June 7) Jim Hendry and the Chicago Cubs' executives need to find possibilities to trade up in the round from pick 16, to possibly snag catching phenom, Bryce Harper—no matter how far-fetched is may seem. 

The Washington Nationals have once again "won" the right to the first overall pick in the MLB First-Year Players Draft, and are on pace to draft Harper, who may surpass former first-overall pick, and National, Stephen Strasburg as the highest paid rookie. 

According to Cbssports.com, however, Washington—who ranks 23rd in team payroll this season—may not be able to afford yet another blockbuster player with their $61 million budget. 

The best option for the Cubs and the Nationals, may be to make a deal on Tuesday.

Derrek Lee is currently the leader in Chicago Cubs trade rumors around the organization, and would be a good fit for the Nationals, who depend on the un-dependable Adam Dunn at first base.

Along with Geovany Soto (.254 batting average with a .405 slugging percentage), Washington could have a set of experience National League veterans to anchor their already youthful squad.

Though the Cubs' chances of landing Harper are a stretch at best, Chicago needs to trade up from their current spot to capitalize on a rather deep amateur draft.

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> As the Chicago Cubs—though still premature—close in on their first losing season season since 2006, one thing may be able to relinquish an utterly disappointing season.

Currently, numerous mock-draft web sites have the Cubs taking yet another pitching prospect, ranging from Alex Wimmers and Asher Wojciechowski, to Stetson Allie and Drew Pomeranz.

As seen with Chicago pitcher-prospects Jeff Samardizija and Jay Jackson, developement of young pitchers can be time consuming, and possibly result in career minor league pitchers. 

So the question should be asked: Does the Chicago Cubs front office have the patience to wait for another mediocre hurler to earn his stripes? And the question can be simply answered with an emphatic "no."

For Cubs fans looking for something to cheer about that doesn't involve the Blackhawks in 2010, draft day may be a short term solution to their spring woes. 

As draft day approaches (round one begins at 7 p.m. ET on June 7) Jim Hendry and the Chicago Cubs' executives need to find possibilities to trade up in the round from pick 16, to possibly snag catching phenom, Bryce Harper—no matter how far-fetched is may seem. 

The Washington Nationals have once again "won" the right to the first overall pick in the MLB First-Year Players Draft, and are on pace to draft Harper, who may surpass former first-overall pick, and National, Stephen Strasburg as the highest paid rookie. 

According to Cbssports.com, however, Washington—who ranks 23rd in team payroll this season—may not be able to afford yet another blockbuster player with their $61 million budget. 

The best option for the Cubs and the Nationals, may be to make a deal on Tuesday.

Derrek Lee is currently the leader in Chicago Cubs trade rumors around the organization, and would be a good fit for the Nationals, who depend on the un-dependable Adam Dunn at first base.

Along with Geovany Soto (.254 batting average with a .405 slugging percentage), Washington could have a set of experience National League veterans to anchor their already youthful squad.

Though the Cubs' chances of landing Harper are a stretch at best, Chicago needs to trade up from their current spot to capitalize on a rather deep amateur draft.

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/the-good-the-bad-and-the-chicago-cubs-why-bryce-harper-may-end-up-a-cubbie/feed/ 0 Chicago Cubs: Why Carlos Silva Isn’t As Good As His Numbers http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-why-carlos-silva-isnt-as-good-as-his-numbers/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-why-carlos-silva-isnt-as-good-as-his-numbers/#comments Wed, 12 May 2010 21:35:09 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/391337-chicago-cubs-is-carlos-silva-really-that-good On a gloomy Wednesday afternoon at Wrigley, Cubs' right-hander Carlos Silva improved to 4-0 in his seventh start of the season. With a 4-3 win over the visiting Florida Marlins, Silva is off to his best start since 2004, where he began the season 5-0 for the Twins.

Sports fans and analysts alike were skeptical when Chicago General Manager Jim Hendry announced that the Cubs, after finishing the 2009 season 86-76, had acquired Silva for clubhouse virus Milton Bradley, and cash, from the Seattle Mariners. 

Bradley has struggled again this season. He's since been placed on the inactive list after asking the Mariners front office for help with "emotional stress."

Silva, meanwhile, has reclaimed his career, The righthander is tearing up the National League, backed by the sporadic Cubs offense. But is Silva really that good? 

When Silva has taken the mound this season, Chicago has outscored opponents 49-28. But the team is hitting just .271 on the season. 

Though Silva holds an unblemished record, his ERA has escalated to a season high 3.50, still his lowest in five seasons.

For the third time this year, Lou Pinella yanked Silva in the sixth inning. The starter surrendered seven hits, two runs and two walks.

Holding a two run lead in the top of the fourth, Silva gave up a two run single to Marlins catcher Ronny Paulino. The game tying hit scored Hanley Ramirez and Jorge Cantu. 

How does the Venezuelan right-hander keep winning with such mediocre performances?

Despite his fourth inning blunders, Silva would regain the lead with an RBI double by Marlon Byrd and a wild pitch by Chris Volstad. Volstad's mistake allowed shortstop Starlin Castro to touch home, giving the Cubs a 4-2 lead. The runs were enough insurance for Silva, who notched his fourth win. 

In his May 7th victory, Silva received the most run support by the Chicago lineup with 14, while pitching only five innings and giving up 10 hits. Silva also has three no decisions, which came against the Reds (19-15), Nationals (19-15) and Diamondbacks (14-20). 

Silva could very well be 4-3.

On May 1st, Silva threw five innings, giving up five runs to the NL West worst Diamondbacks. The Cubs rallied in the sixth to, once again, save Silva from another blemish. 

Against the Nationals on April 26th, Chicago jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, which quickly evaporated when Silva allowed two runs in the fourth, then another in the sixth to tie the game at 3. He was lifted in the seventh. The Cubs eventually won the game in the bottom of the 10th when Brian Bruney walked the bases loaded.

Silva clearly isn't as good as his record suggests. Though the pitcher obviously won't maintain his ethereal 0.69 ERA, no one would've predicted that the Cubs OFFENSE would be the source of his success.

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> On a gloomy Wednesday afternoon at Wrigley, Cubs' right-hander Carlos Silva improved to 4-0 in his seventh start of the season. With a 4-3 win over the visiting Florida Marlins, Silva is off to his best start since 2004, where he began the season 5-0 for the Twins.

Sports fans and analysts alike were skeptical when Chicago General Manager Jim Hendry announced that the Cubs, after finishing the 2009 season 86-76, had acquired Silva for clubhouse virus Milton Bradley, and cash, from the Seattle Mariners. 

Bradley has struggled again this season. He's since been placed on the inactive list after asking the Mariners front office for help with "emotional stress."

Silva, meanwhile, has reclaimed his career, The righthander is tearing up the National League, backed by the sporadic Cubs offense. But is Silva really that good? 

When Silva has taken the mound this season, Chicago has outscored opponents 49-28. But the team is hitting just .271 on the season. 

Though Silva holds an unblemished record, his ERA has escalated to a season high 3.50, still his lowest in five seasons.

For the third time this year, Lou Pinella yanked Silva in the sixth inning. The starter surrendered seven hits, two runs and two walks.

Holding a two run lead in the top of the fourth, Silva gave up a two run single to Marlins catcher Ronny Paulino. The game tying hit scored Hanley Ramirez and Jorge Cantu. 

How does the Venezuelan right-hander keep winning with such mediocre performances?

Despite his fourth inning blunders, Silva would regain the lead with an RBI double by Marlon Byrd and a wild pitch by Chris Volstad. Volstad's mistake allowed shortstop Starlin Castro to touch home, giving the Cubs a 4-2 lead. The runs were enough insurance for Silva, who notched his fourth win. 

In his May 7th victory, Silva received the most run support by the Chicago lineup with 14, while pitching only five innings and giving up 10 hits. Silva also has three no decisions, which came against the Reds (19-15), Nationals (19-15) and Diamondbacks (14-20). 

Silva could very well be 4-3.

On May 1st, Silva threw five innings, giving up five runs to the NL West worst Diamondbacks. The Cubs rallied in the sixth to, once again, save Silva from another blemish. 

Against the Nationals on April 26th, Chicago jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, which quickly evaporated when Silva allowed two runs in the fourth, then another in the sixth to tie the game at 3. He was lifted in the seventh. The Cubs eventually won the game in the bottom of the 10th when Brian Bruney walked the bases loaded.

Silva clearly isn't as good as his record suggests. Though the pitcher obviously won't maintain his ethereal 0.69 ERA, no one would've predicted that the Cubs OFFENSE would be the source of his success.

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-why-carlos-silva-isnt-as-good-as-his-numbers/feed/ 0 Chicago Cubs’ Starlin Castro Surpasses Expectations in Major League Debut http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-starlin-castro-surpasses-expectations-in-major-league-debut/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-starlin-castro-surpasses-expectations-in-major-league-debut/#comments Sat, 08 May 2010 04:20:57 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/389345-chicago-cubs-castro-surpasses-expectations-in-major-league-debut Finally, it appears that the Chicago Cubs are willing to show some backbone in the dugout after the promotion of Class AA shortstop Starlin Castro to the Major League roster. Castro made his highly anticipated MLB debut on Friday—after a series sweep by the Pirates left the rotation gasping for run support. 

For the first time in four years, Ryan Theriot was moved over to second base to supplement the promotion of Castro. 

In his first at bat as a major leaguer, Castro hit a three-run home run in the away half of the second inning and finished the game two hits and six RBI—moreover allowing the Cubs to end a three-game skid with a 14-7 win over the Reds. 

Just when the night seemed like it couldn't get any better, it was announced that Castro was the first ever rookie to debut with six RBI in Major League history. 

The only response from skipper Lou Piniella was: "What a debut!" 

Other offense for the Cubs came by way of another three-run home run by outfielder Marlon Byrd and a grand slam by Mike Fontenot in the eighth. 

Due to this marvelous offensive support, Carlos Silva received his third win of the season (3-0) after giving up four runs on 10 hits and four errors in just five innings. 

All we can here echoing from former ace Carlos Zambrano in the bullpen is: "Where was that when I was still in the rotation?" And then proceeding to destroy a perfectly good beverage container with the world's best maple. 

Questions surrounding the middle infield in Chicago have been numerous of late—shortstop Theriot and Fontenot both had relatively slow starts to the season—and after Castro's performance, the conversations are only going to get more interesting. 

Theriot, who has rebounded from a horrible start to lead the club in hitting with 43 hits and a .333 average, will continue to lead off for the Cubs, but will most likely remain at second, after chemistry could be seen after only one game with the Dominican national, Castro.

Castro and Theriot linked up on their first double play of many on the year in the bottom of the fourth inning, by way of a 6-4-3. 

Most likely, Castro will remain with the big league club and continue to play short stop at least five days a week for the Cubs according to ESPN: Chicago writer Bruce Levine. 

If this sporadic amount of success continues for Chicago's offense, fans may once again regain hope, with the wild card race still in tact with a 14-16 record—four games behind National League-leading San Fransisco.

The Cubs will look to continue their offensive triumphs when they match up once again against the Reds on Saturday. Castro may break out once again when he faces right hander Aaron Harang, who currently boasts a 6.68 ERA. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> Finally, it appears that the Chicago Cubs are willing to show some backbone in the dugout after the promotion of Class AA shortstop Starlin Castro to the Major League roster. Castro made his highly anticipated MLB debut on Friday—after a series sweep by the Pirates left the rotation gasping for run support. 

For the first time in four years, Ryan Theriot was moved over to second base to supplement the promotion of Castro. 

In his first at bat as a major leaguer, Castro hit a three-run home run in the away half of the second inning and finished the game two hits and six RBI—moreover allowing the Cubs to end a three-game skid with a 14-7 win over the Reds. 

Just when the night seemed like it couldn't get any better, it was announced that Castro was the first ever rookie to debut with six RBI in Major League history. 

The only response from skipper Lou Piniella was: "What a debut!" 

Other offense for the Cubs came by way of another three-run home run by outfielder Marlon Byrd and a grand slam by Mike Fontenot in the eighth. 

Due to this marvelous offensive support, Carlos Silva received his third win of the season (3-0) after giving up four runs on 10 hits and four errors in just five innings. 

All we can here echoing from former ace Carlos Zambrano in the bullpen is: "Where was that when I was still in the rotation?" And then proceeding to destroy a perfectly good beverage container with the world's best maple. 

Questions surrounding the middle infield in Chicago have been numerous of late—shortstop Theriot and Fontenot both had relatively slow starts to the season—and after Castro's performance, the conversations are only going to get more interesting. 

Theriot, who has rebounded from a horrible start to lead the club in hitting with 43 hits and a .333 average, will continue to lead off for the Cubs, but will most likely remain at second, after chemistry could be seen after only one game with the Dominican national, Castro.

Castro and Theriot linked up on their first double play of many on the year in the bottom of the fourth inning, by way of a 6-4-3. 

Most likely, Castro will remain with the big league club and continue to play short stop at least five days a week for the Cubs according to ESPN: Chicago writer Bruce Levine. 

If this sporadic amount of success continues for Chicago's offense, fans may once again regain hope, with the wild card race still in tact with a 14-16 record—four games behind National League-leading San Fransisco.

The Cubs will look to continue their offensive triumphs when they match up once again against the Reds on Saturday. Castro may break out once again when he faces right hander Aaron Harang, who currently boasts a 6.68 ERA. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-starlin-castro-surpasses-expectations-in-major-league-debut/feed/ 0 Chicago Cubs: Lilly’s Return Couldn’t Be More Needed http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-lillys-return-couldnt-be-more-needed/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-lillys-return-couldnt-be-more-needed/#comments Thu, 22 Apr 2010 22:58:35 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/382815-chicago-cubs-lillys-return-couldnt-be-more-needed In the 2010 season, the Chicago Cubs rotation has been as dependable as a Toyota— especially since the recent move by Lou Piniella of Carlos Zambrano to the bullpen, and complete domination by recently acquired starter Carlos Silva.

Silva— who on Wednesday threw six complete innings, giving up only two hits and one earned run to go with his four strikeouts - has two wins in his three starts, after only winning five games in 34 starts for the Seattle Mariners in two years.

Is this cause for excitement for staggering Cubs fans?

Not quite. 

With Seattle, Silva struggled to command pitches and sported an astronomical ERA (lowest 6.46), while in a pitchers ball park, backed by one of the best statistical defenses in the MLB. Silva also battled a shoulder injury, which left him stranded on the DL for the majority of his contract. 

Though Silva has started the season as good as anyone in the National League for the Cubs, Chicago still has no definite "ace" and will sport an $18 million set-up man in Zambrano. 

After two solid outings for Class A Peoria, Ted Lilly will return to the top of a terrible rotation against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday or Sunday, according to the Cubs, bringing relief to a rotation that is currently eighth in the National League in ERA (4.29).

In November, Lilly underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder, hindering him from play for five months. 

Lilly, in the 2009 season, led the Cubs with 12 wins in 177 innings pitched and an ERA of 3.10, which was good enough for second best on the Chicago pitching staff. 

Most likely, the Cubs will limit Lilly to 5 innings or 100 pitches in his first start of the season, in order to maintain his shoulder, and keep him off the DL. 

Chicago currently sits at 6-9 in the National League Central, good enough (or bad enough) for fourth in the division, and a full game behind a Pittsburgh team that lost 20-0 against the Brewers - who the Cubs face in their next series. 

Clearly the Cubs' rotation isn't cause to all of the woes at Wrigley in 2010— Chicago's lineup is ranked tenth in the National League with a .251 batting average and 13th in runs scored with 62. 

Overall, the predominate question for Jim Hendry and the Cubs' front office staff is, why would we spend $18 million on a reliever and not shop for a qualified candidate to fill the position?

The Cubs are notorious for ruining bright, young starting pitchers (Mark Prior, Kerry Wood) and may have done it again with Zambrano, and somewhere in their $147 million budget should be room for a serviceable relief man to support closer Carlos Marmol. 

With the third best payroll in Major League Baseball, one would assume that the Chicago Cubs were a perennial powerhouse in the National League.

Actually, its been quite the opposite. Fans demand more from a team with such prestige, and after over a century, I think we're ready for a championship. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> In the 2010 season, the Chicago Cubs rotation has been as dependable as a Toyota— especially since the recent move by Lou Piniella of Carlos Zambrano to the bullpen, and complete domination by recently acquired starter Carlos Silva.

Silva— who on Wednesday threw six complete innings, giving up only two hits and one earned run to go with his four strikeouts - has two wins in his three starts, after only winning five games in 34 starts for the Seattle Mariners in two years.

Is this cause for excitement for staggering Cubs fans?

Not quite. 

With Seattle, Silva struggled to command pitches and sported an astronomical ERA (lowest 6.46), while in a pitchers ball park, backed by one of the best statistical defenses in the MLB. Silva also battled a shoulder injury, which left him stranded on the DL for the majority of his contract. 

Though Silva has started the season as good as anyone in the National League for the Cubs, Chicago still has no definite "ace" and will sport an $18 million set-up man in Zambrano. 

After two solid outings for Class A Peoria, Ted Lilly will return to the top of a terrible rotation against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday or Sunday, according to the Cubs, bringing relief to a rotation that is currently eighth in the National League in ERA (4.29).

In November, Lilly underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder, hindering him from play for five months. 

Lilly, in the 2009 season, led the Cubs with 12 wins in 177 innings pitched and an ERA of 3.10, which was good enough for second best on the Chicago pitching staff. 

Most likely, the Cubs will limit Lilly to 5 innings or 100 pitches in his first start of the season, in order to maintain his shoulder, and keep him off the DL. 

Chicago currently sits at 6-9 in the National League Central, good enough (or bad enough) for fourth in the division, and a full game behind a Pittsburgh team that lost 20-0 against the Brewers - who the Cubs face in their next series. 

Clearly the Cubs' rotation isn't cause to all of the woes at Wrigley in 2010— Chicago's lineup is ranked tenth in the National League with a .251 batting average and 13th in runs scored with 62. 

Overall, the predominate question for Jim Hendry and the Cubs' front office staff is, why would we spend $18 million on a reliever and not shop for a qualified candidate to fill the position?

The Cubs are notorious for ruining bright, young starting pitchers (Mark Prior, Kerry Wood) and may have done it again with Zambrano, and somewhere in their $147 million budget should be room for a serviceable relief man to support closer Carlos Marmol. 

With the third best payroll in Major League Baseball, one would assume that the Chicago Cubs were a perennial powerhouse in the National League.

Actually, its been quite the opposite. Fans demand more from a team with such prestige, and after over a century, I think we're ready for a championship. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/chicago-cubs-lillys-return-couldnt-be-more-needed/feed/ 0 Job Security: Ryan Theriot May Have To Earn His Position, For Once http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/job-security-ryan-theriot-may-have-to-earn-his-position-for-once/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/job-security-ryan-theriot-may-have-to-earn-his-position-for-once/#comments Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:07:03 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/377932-job-security-theriot-may-have-to-compete-for-his-position-for-once After a matchup between two relatively awful teams left Cubs fans with high hopes Monday, deeper problems still plague the mind of seasoned manager Lou Piniella.

Piniella may have made his best decision so far in the young season when he decided to start 24-year-old Tyler Colvin in replace of the struggling Alfonso Soriano on April 8. The result? Colvin belted his first career home run in his first at-bat of the season. 

With Ryan Theriot struggling, to say the least—Theriot is 7-for-27 with five hits and a .185 batting average—another quick change may be in the works for a Chicago team that currently sits with record of 3-4. 

That change is highly touted prospect, Starlin Castro. 

So far for Class AA Tennessee, Castro is slugging .545 with an on-base percentage of .391—all while averaging .364 in the second hole for the Smokies. 

The Dominican national's success should be taken as an early bright spot for the Wrigley faithful, who of late, have been bombarded by trade rumors and pitching woes. 

The shortstop position is clearly the weakest, and shallowest position on the Cubs' deep roster, and it greatly needs to be reinforced. 

New replacements have proven to be successful for Chicago so far in only their seven games. In his first start of the season, Xavier Nady drove in three runs with one swing of the bat in the Cubs' win over the Brewers. 

Castro should begin moving up through the organization soon, and should be playing in Chicago by late May or early June at the latest. 

Such a strong asset needs to be utilized by the club, whether it decides to build up his trade value or lock him up for the entirety of his career. 

Castro has proven himself throughout his career in the minor leagues, hitting .300 in all but one season with the organization. 

In Spring Training this year, Castro hit .423 in his 26 at-bats, and along with Colvin, was on the verge of being added to the major league roster at the beginning of April.

After already gaining the support of his major league teammates, the only stop left for Starlin Castro is Chicago—and after that, it won't be long before Theriot will be competing for his meal ticket. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> After a matchup between two relatively awful teams left Cubs fans with high hopes Monday, deeper problems still plague the mind of seasoned manager Lou Piniella.

Piniella may have made his best decision so far in the young season when he decided to start 24-year-old Tyler Colvin in replace of the struggling Alfonso Soriano on April 8. The result? Colvin belted his first career home run in his first at-bat of the season. 

With Ryan Theriot struggling, to say the least—Theriot is 7-for-27 with five hits and a .185 batting average—another quick change may be in the works for a Chicago team that currently sits with record of 3-4. 

That change is highly touted prospect, Starlin Castro. 

So far for Class AA Tennessee, Castro is slugging .545 with an on-base percentage of .391—all while averaging .364 in the second hole for the Smokies. 

The Dominican national's success should be taken as an early bright spot for the Wrigley faithful, who of late, have been bombarded by trade rumors and pitching woes. 

The shortstop position is clearly the weakest, and shallowest position on the Cubs' deep roster, and it greatly needs to be reinforced. 

New replacements have proven to be successful for Chicago so far in only their seven games. In his first start of the season, Xavier Nady drove in three runs with one swing of the bat in the Cubs' win over the Brewers. 

Castro should begin moving up through the organization soon, and should be playing in Chicago by late May or early June at the latest. 

Such a strong asset needs to be utilized by the club, whether it decides to build up his trade value or lock him up for the entirety of his career. 

Castro has proven himself throughout his career in the minor leagues, hitting .300 in all but one season with the organization. 

In Spring Training this year, Castro hit .423 in his 26 at-bats, and along with Colvin, was on the verge of being added to the major league roster at the beginning of April.

After already gaining the support of his major league teammates, the only stop left for Starlin Castro is Chicago—and after that, it won't be long before Theriot will be competing for his meal ticket. 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/job-security-ryan-theriot-may-have-to-earn-his-position-for-once/feed/ 0 Tyler Colvin Silences Skeptics, Cubs Get First Win http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/tyler-colvin-silences-skeptics-cubs-get-first-win/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/tyler-colvin-silences-skeptics-cubs-get-first-win/#comments Fri, 09 Apr 2010 02:01:31 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/375673-colvin-silences-skeptics-cubs-get-first-win Must I say I told you so?

Thursday, Tyler Colvin, 24, made his first start of the 2010 season at Turner Field for the Cubs after slow starts from Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome, and the entire Chicago offense for that matter.

Colvin faced numerous skeptics after demolishing opponents in spring training—the outfielder hit .468 while slugging .753 and driving in 18 RBI’s in 77 plate appearances—but few of those doubters still remain.

In his first at bat, Colvin belted a deep home run to right field off Atlanta right-hander Tommy Hanson in the top of the second inning.

Colvin finished the game 1-3, with one run scored and an RBI.

Thursday was a night of firsts. Chicago received their first win of the season against the Braves with a 2-0 victory, and finally topped the team they may battle with for the wild card playoff position.

After an exceptional performance, Colvin will obviously be incorporated into the Cubs lineup more regularly to shake things up in the middle of the order, along with Xavier Nady.

Colvin also showed a strong arm once again from his left field position, nearly throwing out Omar Infante at first base after a fly ball. 

Though I don’t mean to get too excited over one start, Colvin can possibly be a very reliable pinch hitter and defensive replacement in the future.

His game statistics may seem low to some, but Colvin accounted for one of only four hits by Chicago in the win.

With the recent offensive deficiency plaguing the Chicago dugout, Colvin’s early success can only be looked at as a bright spot in the young season, after a relatively absent offense.

Overall, Cubs fans will be able to continually look to Colvin as a producer this season and for seasons to come.

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> Must I say I told you so?

Thursday, Tyler Colvin, 24, made his first start of the 2010 season at Turner Field for the Cubs after slow starts from Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome, and the entire Chicago offense for that matter.

Colvin faced numerous skeptics after demolishing opponents in spring training—the outfielder hit .468 while slugging .753 and driving in 18 RBI’s in 77 plate appearances—but few of those doubters still remain.

In his first at bat, Colvin belted a deep home run to right field off Atlanta right-hander Tommy Hanson in the top of the second inning.

Colvin finished the game 1-3, with one run scored and an RBI.

Thursday was a night of firsts. Chicago received their first win of the season against the Braves with a 2-0 victory, and finally topped the team they may battle with for the wild card playoff position.

After an exceptional performance, Colvin will obviously be incorporated into the Cubs lineup more regularly to shake things up in the middle of the order, along with Xavier Nady.

Colvin also showed a strong arm once again from his left field position, nearly throwing out Omar Infante at first base after a fly ball. 

Though I don’t mean to get too excited over one start, Colvin can possibly be a very reliable pinch hitter and defensive replacement in the future.

His game statistics may seem low to some, but Colvin accounted for one of only four hits by Chicago in the win.

With the recent offensive deficiency plaguing the Chicago dugout, Colvin’s early success can only be looked at as a bright spot in the young season, after a relatively absent offense.

Overall, Cubs fans will be able to continually look to Colvin as a producer this season and for seasons to come.

 

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/tyler-colvin-silences-skeptics-cubs-get-first-win/feed/ 0 Around The MLB: Piniella on His Way Out of Chicago http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/around-the-mlb-piniella-on-his-way-out-of-chicago/ http://www.cubsmaniacs.com/chicago-cubs/around-the-mlb-piniella-on-his-way-out-of-chicago/#comments Thu, 08 Apr 2010 03:16:24 +0000 John Engel http://bleacherreport.com/articles/375168-around-the-mlb-piniella-on-his-way-out-of-chicago On a night when three of the worst teams in baseball kept their respective powerhouse opponents at bay -the Pirates played the Dodgers, the Reds faced the Cardinals and the Nationals battled the Phillies– even the Chicago Cubs saw a glimpse of offense as they led the Atlanta Braves, just as the apocalypse seemed to be setting in on Wednesday night. 

Unfortunately, the stars couldn’t quite align. Chicago once again played too much like the Cubs and fell to the Braves after an eighth inning homerun by Chipper Jones, while only the Pirates, Indians and Blue Jays were able to edge out wins against divisional favorites Los Angeles, Chicago (White Sox) and Texas.

The Phillies and the Cardinals were both able to come back and win against their opponents correspondingly, giving each of them two wins on the season.

Lou Piniella failed to ward off recent job security rumors with the loss on Wednesday, after the Cubs’ offense had failed to make any noise in their first two games of the young 2010 season against the Braves.

Ryan Dempster had a productive outing in his first start of the season, throwing six innings with three hits and one run allowed on his way to nine strikeouts in the no-decision.

How long will the Chicago front office wait for the lackluster offense to respond? Well, with the most impatient fans in the entire league, my guess is that Piniella may be on his way out.

Many people may say that it’s still early in the season, and that there are 160 games left. News flash geniuses, this kind of inconsistency has been going since the Clinton administration.

As someone who calls himself part of the illustrious Wrigley Faithful, the only option that I can see is to mix up the lineup or change the coaching staff before it gets too late.

Cubs fans may seem their first taste of spring sensation Tyler Colvin, rookie, in the coming games, after outfielders Alfonso Soriano, Marlyn Bird and Kosuke Fukedome have had spotty performances in the last two games.

The best route four Chicago may be to first implement Colvin in the form of pinch-hit at bats, in the way that the New York Yankees have used veteran Randy Winn in the past two games against the Red Sox.

Though spring training statistics are often scoffed at and forgotten, Colvin’s success of late may translate to the big show and could help shake things up in a cryptic Chicago lineup.

With the third highest payroll in Major League Baseball – the Cubs are behind both the New York Mets and the New York Yankees at over $135 million – Chicago should be a perennial powerhouse in the National League, but have fallen short in recent years.

Changes need to be made before it’s too late for the Chicago Cubs and the first step may need to be a team without Lou Piniella.

Read more Chicago Cubs news on BleacherReport.com

]]> On a night when three of the worst teams in baseball kept their respective powerhouse opponents at bay -the Pirates played the Dodgers, the Reds faced the Cardinals and the Nationals battled the Phillies– even the Chicago Cubs saw a glimpse of offense as they led the Atlanta Braves, just as the apocalypse seemed to be setting in on Wednesday night. 

Unfortunately, the stars couldn’t quite align. Chicago once again played too much like the Cubs and fell to the Braves after an eighth inning homerun by Chipper Jones, while only the Pirates, Indians and Blue Jays were able to edge out wins against divisional favorites Los Angeles, Chicago (White Sox) and Texas.

The Phillies and the Cardinals were both able to come back and win against their opponents correspondingly, giving each of them two wins on the season.

Lou Piniella failed to ward off recent job security rumors with the loss on Wednesday, after the Cubs’ offense had failed to make any noise in their first two games of the young 2010 season against the Braves.

Ryan Dempster had a productive outing in his first start of the season, throwing six innings with three hits and one run allowed on his way to nine strikeouts in the no-decision.

How long will the Chicago front office wait for the lackluster offense to respond? Well, with the most impatient fans in the entire league, my guess is that Piniella may be on his way out.

Many people may say that it’s still early in the season, and that there are 160 games left. News flash geniuses, this kind of inconsistency has been going since the Clinton administration.

As someone who calls himself part of the illustrious Wrigley Faithful, the only option that I can see is to mix up the lineup or change the coaching staff before it gets too late.

Cubs fans may seem their first taste of spring sensation Tyler Colvin, rookie, in the coming games, after outfielders Alfonso Soriano, Marlyn Bird and Kosuke Fukedome have had spotty performances in the last two games.

The best route four Chicago may be to first implement Colvin in the form of pinch-hit at bats, in the way that the New York Yankees have used veteran Randy Winn in the past two games against the Red Sox.

Though spring training statistics are often scoffed at and forgotten, Colvin’s success of late may translate to the big show and could help shake things up in a cryptic Chicago lineup.

With the third highest payroll in Major League Baseball – the Cubs are behind both the New York Mets and the New York Yankees at over $135 million – Chicago should be a perennial powerhouse in the National League, but have fallen short in recent years.

Changes need to be made before it’s too late for the Chicago Cubs and the first step may need to be a team without Lou Piniella.

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